Oliver Dowden says he is staying at home after a family member developed coronavirus-type symptoms.

The newly-appointed Culture Secretary and Hertsmere MP said on Twitter he will be staying at home in line with Government advice.

Mr Dowden said on Twitter today: "A member of my family currently has #covid19uk symptoms so in line with government advice I will be remaining at home.

"I'm feeling fine and will of course be working on @DCMS priorities in these very challenging times, and continuing to support my constituents in Hertsmere."

As of 9am March 16, there are 29 cases of Covid-19 in Hertfordshire according to Public Health England.

This is down from 32 cases yesterday - Public Health England has confirmed to this newspaper it is investigating the decrease. 

During a press conference yesterday, the Prime Minister urged people to avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and social venues, but no legislation has been passed to enforce these venues to lockdown.