Boris Johnson, speaking at a sparsely attended blockchain conference in Henley-on-Thames, admitted to a 'period of re-evaluation' regarding his stance on cryptocurrency. According to a press release distributed by his newly formed consultancy, 'Opportunities Unlocked Ltd.', the former PM now finds compelling the stories of 'hard-working Britons embracing the digital frontier.'

Specifically, Johnson cited a conversation with Mrs. Penelope Featherstonehaugh, owner of 'Shepherd's Delight Huts', a luxury glamping site in the Cotswolds. Mrs. Featherstonehaugh reportedly accepts Bitcoin payments for 'bespoke renovations' performed by local tradesmen. Johnson elaborated, 'Penelope tells me that Bitcoin has allowed her to circumvent traditional banking bureaucracy, facilitating quicker payments to artisans crafting authentic, hand-hewn shepherd's crook coat hooks. This is precisely the sort of nimble, free-market innovation we should be celebrating.'

The former Prime Minister also made reference to anecdotal reports from several property developers in Oxfordshire who have seen increased demand for properties marketed with the ability to accept rent in Bitcoin. 'One chap, a Mr. Bartholomew 'Barty' Chumley, told me that millennials simply adore the idea of 'hodling' their rent payments, although he did admit the volatility made budgeting for maintenance a 'bit of a lark.''

Asked about his previous concerns regarding Bitcoin's potential as a Ponzi scheme, Johnson dismissed them as 'preliminary musings' based on 'incomplete data.' He emphasized the importance of 'remaining open to disruptive technologies' and highlighted the potential for Bitcoin to empower small businesses and revitalise rural economies, particularly those involved in the luxury shepherd's hut sector.

### What They Don't Want You To Know

Johnson's consultancy, 'Opportunities Unlocked Ltd.', quietly filed paperwork last week to become a registered Bitcoin mining operation based in a disused poultry farm in Buckinghamshire, prompting speculation about the true motivations behind his newfound crypto enthusiasm.

### Closing Kicker

As Johnson concluded his remarks, a reporter asked if he had personally invested in Bitcoin. He paused, smiled broadly, and replied, 'Let's just say I'm now a firm believer in the power of huts...shepherd's huts, that is.'