Politics

Here's what happens to Government with Boris Johnson in hospital for coronavirus


Boris Johnson was tonight admitted to hospital for tests due to “persistent” coronavirus symptoms.

Although Downing Street has insisted that the step was “precautionary” and that the Prime Minister will continue to run the country, it raises questions about what happens if he needs to stay in for prolonged treatment.

He is currently in a London NHS hospital and is believed to be staying in overnight at the very least.

If the Prime Minister is off sick with coronavirus, who’s running the country?

Here’s what we know about who’s in charge while Johnson is still ill.

For the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, click here

Boris Johnson has been admitted to hospital

Who’s in charge?

Up to now Number 10 has said Boris Johnson has been able to do his job in self-isolation.

When the Prime Minister is away or unable to perform his duties, the First Minister usually takes over for them.

Currently, the first minister is the Foreign Secretary,  Dominic Raab.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab

We already know that Mr Raab is set to chair the daily Covid-19 meeting for ministers and officials tomorrow morning.

Depending on Mr Johnson’s condition, he may have to continue further into the week.

Essentially any duties the PM can’t physically do, Raab would take over.

Boris Johnson was pictured clapping for the NHS outside Downing Street on Thursday

On Sunday night, a spokesman insisted that Mr Johnson remains “in charge of the Government” despite his hospital admission.

What about other departments?

Other ministers and secretaries of state will keep running their own departments.

Has Mr Johnson been working since his diagnosis?

Boris Johnson has led several meetings via video conferencing since his diagnosis including the Cabinet.
He has shared several video updates from his Number 11 flat and stepped outside to join the nationwide clap for NHS staff on Thursday evening.

What has Downing Street said about the PM’s condition?

A Downing Street spokesperson said: “On the advice of his doctor, the Prime Minister has tonight been admitted to hospital for tests.

“This is a precautionary step, as the Prime Minister continues to have persistent symptoms of coronavirus ten days after testing positive for the virus.

“The Prime Minister thanks NHS staff for all of their incredible hard work and urges the public to continue to follow the Government’s advice to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”

Health Secretary Matt Hancock is back at work after recovering from coronavirus

Has anybody else in Government been ill?

Health Secretary Matt Hancock is already back at work after having tested positive for Coronavirus.

Scotland Secretary Alister Jack also developed telltale signs of the illness.

Chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty self-quarantined after he noticed symptoms, and the Prime Minister’s chief adviser, Dominic Cummings, also self isolated.





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