Boris Johnson transferred to intensive care as coronavirus symptoms 'worsen'

The Prime Minister has been moved to intensive care after his coronavirus symptoms worsened.

Boris Johnson was first diagnosed with covid-19 11 days ago, but he deteriorated on Monday afternoon.

In a statement, Downing Street says he's been moved as a precaution in case he needs a ventilator - it's also been confirmed he's still conscious.

He was first admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital in London on Sunday evening.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been asked to deputise for Mr Johnson in the meantime.

Mr Raab said there was an "incredibly strong team spirit behind" Boris Johnson and that ministers were determined to carry out his "direction".

"The Government's business will continue,'" he said.

"The Prime Minister is in safe hands with that brilliant team at St Thomas' hospital, and the focus of the Government will continue to be on making sure that the Prime Minister's direction, all the plans for making sure that we can defeat coronavirus and can pull the country through this challenge, will be taken forward."

He added: "There's an incredibly strong team spirit behind the Prime Minister, and making sure that we get all of the plans the Prime Minister's instructed us to deliver, to get them implemented as soon as possible.

"And that's the way it will bring the whole country through the coronavirus challenge that we face right now."

Politicians from all sides have wished Boris Johnson well, with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon saying she was sending the PM "every good wish''

Newly elected Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer tweeted "all the country's thoughts are with the Prime Minister and his family during this incredibly difficult time."

Meanwhile, Scottish Tory leader Jackson Carlaw said it was desperately worrying news and sent his heartfelt good wishes.

The Queen has also been kept informed by Downing Street about the Prime Minister's condition, Buckingham Palace said.

We last heard from Boris Johnson on Friday, when he was staying at his Downing Street flat.

In a video he urged people to remain at home to slow the spread of the disease.

More to follow...

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