Welsh families who missed out on goodbyes 'deeply distressed' by Dominic Cummings' actions

A Welsh MP said members of his constituency are "deeply distressed" by the actions of Dominic Cummings, who has been questioned over whether he broke lockdown rules.

The prime minister's chief adviser drove from London to County Durham in March to self-isolate with his family when he and his wife became ill.

The Labour MP for Ogmore, Chris Elmore, said he has received emails from "angry, upset and hurting" constituents who were unable to say goodbye to loved ones due to restrictions.

Mr Cummings said his decision to drive 264 miles was based not only on fears over a lack of childcare if he became incapacitated with Covid-19, but also concerns about his family’s safety.

In a statement on Monday he said he did not regret his actions, and that he believes he behaved "responsibly and legally".

Mr Elmore told ITV Cymru Wales: "I've seen over the last 24-48 hours constituents in deep distress at what they think Mr Cummings has done, because they have lost loved ones, not been able to say goodbye to them, have not been able to visit family even when they've been ill.

"They have had to get support and help where they can, and if they haven't they've had to get on with it."

In response to Mr Cummings' statement, Mr Elmore added: "He seems to be confirming that there is one rule for him as the chief government adviser, and another rule for everybody else.

"They've had to get on with it because they believe they were following the rules that they shouldn't travel, they should stay at home, they should protect the NHS and they should save lives."

Mr Cummings has criticism for his actions but the prime minister offered his support on Sunday during the daily coronavirus briefing.

Boris Johnson said: "In every respect, he has acted responsibly, legally and with integrity."

Watch Dominic Cummings' full statement here: