Dominic Cummings says 'no regrets' for 'legal and reasonable' Durham trip as Boris Johnson stands by his man

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Dominic Cummings has said he has no regrets about driving from London to Durham during lockdown, arguing he did what he thought was "the smallest risk to the smallest number of people".

Speaking from Downing Street's Rose Garden, Boris Johnson's chief adviser said he drove his sick wife and their four-year old son more than 260 miles to his parents' property over fears they would not be able to look after their child if they were both struck down with coronavirus.

Mr Cummings confirmed he drove to Barnard Castle on day 15 of isolating, insisting this was to ensure he could return to London safely amid concerns for his eyesight. Mr Cumming also admitted the family then sat by the riverside for 15 minutes.

But he rejected claims he then returned to Durham a second time and placed the blame for "understandable" anger at his actions on "reports in the media that aren't true".

Speaking later, Mr Johnson insisted he did not believe that "anyone in Number 10 has done anything to undermine our message".

The Prime Minister also confirmed England would enter "step two" of his roadmap next week, with schools and some shops beginning to reopen from June 1.

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