Health minister apologises for in-person meeting following positive Covid test

Gillian Keegan says that was an 'error of judgment'

Author: Ryan BurrowsPublished 9th Feb 2022
Last updated 9th Feb 2022

The social care minister has apologised for continuing an in-person meeting after testing positive for coronavirus.

Gillian Keegan, who is also the MP for Chichester, was speaking with a group of fathers who had lost their daughters to suicide when she was informed of the lateral flow result on Tuesday (February 8th).

In a statement posted on Twitter, she said she stayed for a while to continue hearing their stories after receiving the news, but admits she should have left at that point.

Ms Keegan also mentioned taking 'further precautions', but did not clarify what those were.

"Earlier today, ahead of a planned visit I took a precautionary LFD test which gave a positive result. I am now isolating at home and fortunately feel fine.

"When I was told my test was positive I was listening to three fathers who had tragically lost their daughters to suicide.

"I told them the result and took further precautions but with their consent, I stayed for a short period to hear their stories.

"I should have immediately ended the meeting and on reflection this was an error of judgment on my part.

"I fully recognise the importance of following the letter and spirit of the policies, so want to be upfront about what happened and to apologise for the mistake I made."

The government's own coronavirus rules say an individual must isolate "straight away" if they record a positive lateral flow result.

A spokesperson for the Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, said the minister has accepted Ms Keegan's apology:

"The Secretary of State has spoken with the minister who has taken responsibility for her actions and made a full apology.

"He accepts her apology and continues to support her in her role."

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