Dominic Cummings goes into self-isolation with coronavirus symptoms

Dominic Cummings has gone into self-isolation after developing coronavirus symptoms over the weekend, it was revealed today. 

The No10 chief has gone into quarantine just days after Boris Johnson tested positive for the disease. 

A Downing Street source said Mr Cummings remained ‘in contact’ with colleagues. 

The dramatic news comes after Mr Johnson rallied Britain for a long battle against coronavirus last night – contradicting his predecessor Margaret Thatcher by insisting the country is showing ‘there is such a thing as society’.

It will fuel fears that the disease is spreading like wildfire through the heart of government.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has also tested positive, while Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty and Scottish Secretary Alister Jack are also in isolation.  

In the two and a half minute video last night – posted from his bunker in 11 Downing Street – Mr Johnson thanked everyone who was contributing to the struggle. 

Sounding slightly croaky but defiant, the premier dropped in a reference to Mrs Thatcher’s 1987 comment in which she said there was ‘no such thing as society’.

The ex-PM’s line was widely taken as an endorsement of full-blown individualism – although she insisted she was merely criticising people who blamed ‘society’ for their own failings and lack of effort.  

Mr Johnson said: ‘We are going to do it, we are going to do it together. 

‘One thing I think the coronavirus crisis has already proved is that there really is such a thing as society.’

The intervention came as the UK coronavirus death toll rose by 209 in 24 hours from 1,019 to 1,228.