Parliament 'must stay open' after MP Dorries' positive virus test

Health Minister and mid-Bedfordshire MP Nadine Dorries has become the first MP to test positive for coronavirus, but Boris Johnson and members of the Cabinet will not be tested, despite concerns about the spread of Covid-19.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said ministers would not need to undergo testing as Public Health England (PHE) worked to advise those who have been in close contact with Ms Dorries.

PHE said it had assessed the risk of Ms Dorries’ individual close contacts and only those with symptoms need to self-isolate.

Despite Ms Dorries having recently been inside Parliament, Baroness Nicky Morgan told ITV News that it should "absolutely" continue.

She said: "The scrutiny of Parliament at this important time is absolutely critical and I think it would send completely the wrong signal for Parliament not to be sitting."

Ms Dorries met up to 9 of her constituents in a surgery at her Mid Bedfordshire constituency on Friday and all those in attendance are advised to seek medical advice.

Steven Dixon, chair of the Mid Bedfordshire Conservative Association said the surgery took place at The Flitwick Club, a private members club, which is now undergoing a deep clean as a precaution.

In a statement, Ms Dorries said: "I can confirm I have tested positive for Coronavirus.

"As soon as I was informed I took all the advised precautions and have been self-isolating at home."

"Public Health England has started detailed contact tracing and the department and my parliamentary office are closely following their advice."

Health Secretary and West Suffolk MP Matt Hancock tweeted saying Ms Dorries "has done the right thing by self-isolating."

Mr Hancock continued: "Really sorry to hear Nadine has tested positive for coronavirus.

"She has done the right thing by self isolating at home, and both NHS and PHE staff have been brilliant. We all wish her well as she recovers."

He added: "I understand why people are worried about this disease. We will do all we can to keep people safe, based on the best possible science."

Three more cases of coronavirus were confirmed in the East of England today.

The Department of Health said the UK recorded its largest day-on-day increase in coronavirus cases as 456 people have tested positive for the virus.

It is a leap from 373 cases at the same point on Tuesday- the largest day on day jump, with cases more than doubling in just four days.