HERE is a round-up of who has said what on the Dominic Cummings' Durham trip today:

Downing Street spokesman

“Owing to his wife being infected with suspected coronavirus and the high likelihood that he would himself become unwell, it was essential for Dominic Cummings to ensure his young child could be properly cared for.

“His sister and nieces had volunteered to help so he went to a house near to but separate from his extended family in case their help was needed.

“His sister shopped for the family and left everything outside.

“At no stage was he or his family spoken to by the police about this matter, as is being reported.

“His actions were in line with coronavirus guidelines. Mr Cummings believes he behaved reasonably and legally.”

Durham Police spokesman

On Tuesday, March 31, our officers were made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city.

“Officers made contact with the owners of that address, who confirmed that the individual in question was present and was self-isolating in part of the house.

“In line with national policing guidance, officers explained to the family the arrangements around self-isolation guidelines and reiterated the appropriate advice around essential travel.”

Acting Durham Police, Crime and Victims’ Commissioner, Steve White

The Northern Echo: Steve White said the Police Federation must radically reform itself into a more progressive organisation

“In relation to the incident where Dominic Cummings visited Durham during lockdown Durham Constabulary acted appropriately. Given the whole ethos of the guidance and regulations issued from the Government was to reduce the spread, regardless of reason, by travelling to County Durham when known to be infected was most unwise. To beat this crisis we need to be selfless as millions have been. The response by the people of County Durham and Darlington have been exemplary, which makes this most frustrating and concerning.

“Incidents such as this do not help, and I can appreciate that the longer this goes on the harder it gets, but I encourage the people of County Durham and Darlington to keep up the outstanding effort seen so far by using common sense when following the guidance to stay alert and continue to social distance.”

Labour councillor Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council

The Northern Echo: Simon-Henig.jpg

“Residents of County Durham who have been observing national Government rules for many weeks are shocked to hear reports that a senior Government figure travelled to Durham from London with coronavirus symptoms.

“This breach of the rule on self-isolation came at a time when the rate of infection was far higher in central London than in Durham.

“The public health guidance has been very clear and must apply to everyone if our communities are to be protected from this terrible virus.”

Labour councillor Lucy Hovvels, portfolio holder for adult and health services

“If these reports are true, then the Prime Minister’s chief adviser must be dismissed for arrogantly and flagrantly flouting the rules he played such a key role in devising.

“The hypocrisy of Dominic Cummings to think he is above his own Government’s guidance is staggering. While the vast majority of our residents in County Durham have made such extraordinary and heart-breaking sacrifices during this pandemic, a senior Government adviser has driven the length of the country, displaying coronavirus symptoms, to swan back to his parents’ house.

“Our communities will be appalled and will rightly expect us to condemn these irresponsible actions, which are an insult to the people who have lost their lives across our county. If the Government does not take immediate action against Cummings, it sends a message that there is one set of rules for those who make them and another for the people of the UK.”

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps

“The Prime Minister knew that he (Mr Cummings) was, quite properly, staying in place with his family, which is the right thing to do.

“The PM knew that he (Mr Cummings) was unwell and that he was in lockdown, but of course the PM was also unwell during the same period, in reference.

“I can tell you the PM provides Mr Cummings with his full support and Mr Cummings has provided a full statement.

“And I think it’s perfectly right that questions are asked.”

Referring to Mr Cummings moving his family to Durham, Mr Shapps said: “It was a straightforward arrangement that meant he stayed in the same place and prevented the possibility of the child in this case from not having support around him.”

The Northern Echo: Grant Shapps at Hinkler Parade in Thornhill

Mr Shapps said Mr Cummings went to Durham because “that’s where the family was”.

“As we all do in moments of crisis we always seek to have our family, those who can assist us around us and I think that’s all that has happened in this case.”

He said he didn’t know the “personal circumstances” of the Cummings family that prevented them seeking help closer to home.

Labour Party spokesman

“The lockdown rules were very clear: if you or anyone in your household was suspected of having Covid-19 you must immediately self-isolate and not leave the house. However, the Prime Minister’s chief adviser appears to believe that it is one rule for him and another for the British people.

“This will cause understandable anger for the millions of people who have sacrificed so much during this crisis.

“Number 10’s statement also raises more questions than it answers. We are still unclear who knew about this decision and when, whether this was sanctioned by the Prime Minister and whether Number 10 is now questioning the validity of the statement from Durham Police.