Boris Johnson has tested positive for Coronavirus.
The 55 year old insists he will continue to lead the government and is now self-isolating in Downing Street
Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus.
I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government’s response via video-conference as we fight this virus.
Together we will beat this. #StayHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/9Te6aFP0Ri
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2020
Downing Street said Mr Johnson had been tested on the advice of his chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty, having been experiencing “mild symptoms” on Thursday.
“The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive,” a statement confirmed.
According to Business Insider the PM will make the UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab his “designated survivor” should he become too ill to remain in position.
Raab, who has twice tested negative for the Coronavirus himself, would become the de facto prime minister while Johnson received treatment.
The decision to give Raab the job reportedly upset some other members of Johnson’s Cabinet.
As the UK is a parliamentary democracy, there would be no need under the UK’s unwritten constitution for an immediate election. However, political pressure from the opposition may lead to an election in the medium term.
