THE Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for coronavirus he has this morning confirmed.

The PM had developed mild symptoms overnight and was tested for COVID-19 by NHS staff in Downing Street.

On social media, the PM said: "Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus.

"I am now self-isolating but will continue to lead the government's response via video-conference as we fight this virus."

A Downing Street spokeswoman said: "After experiencing mild symptoms yesterday, the Prime Minister was tested for coronavirus on the personal advice of England's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty.

The Northern Echo: The PM will video-conference ministers as they respond to COVID-19The PM will video-conference ministers as they respond to COVID-19

"The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive.

"In keeping with the guidance, the Prime Minister is self-isolating in Downing Street.

"He is continuing to lead the government's response to coronavirus."

The spokesperson said Mr Johnson was self-isolating in his flat above Number 11 Downing Street.

"Number 11 in its entirety will serve as the Prime Minister's office and his home - he lives above Number 11 in the flat.

"The doors between Number 10 and Number 11 have been closed off to all other staff who work in the building.

"The PM will work from the office and the study in Number 11, which has been kindly vacated by the Chancellor.

"Full video conferencing facilities have been installed in those downstairs rooms in Number 11.

"All Number 10 staff will observe Public Health England guidelines on contact with the PM and will of course remain two metres apart from him at all times if they were to have any contact."

'Get well soon'

Politicians have since come out and offered their best wishes to the PM following this morning's announcement.

The Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott tweeted: "I don't wish anyone ill. I wish the Prime Minister a speedy recovery. I hope everyone in coming days gets the care and medical attention they need."

Meanwhile, former chancellor Sajid Javid said: "Get well soon. Sending you best wishes from Javid family and Bailey."

Earlier this week, the PM ordered the UK to go into lockdown in order to "flatten the curve" and reduce the number of cases and deaths.

So far across the UK, 11,658 people have tested positive for COVID-19 while the death toll stands at 578.

Last week, a 21-year-old woman became the UK's first person without an underlying condition to die after testing positive for the virus.