Prime minister Boris Johnson has been taken to hospital for tests, 10 days after testing positive for coronavirus.

A Downing Street spokesman said on Sunday night: “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.”

It is understood Mr Johnson has a high temperature. So far, he has led the government's response to the crisis while in self-isolation. Cabinet ministers Matt Hancock and Michael Gove fronted the daily press briefings at the weekend.