Government 'strong and united' as Prime Minister fights coronavirus, says West Norfolk MP

South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss has insisted the government remains "strong and united" following the hospitalisation of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Mr Johnson was moved to intensive care last night after being admitted to St Thomas' Hospital in London on Sunday with persisting symptoms of the coronavirus.

In a statement this afternoon, Ms Truss, the international trade secretary, said: "First and foremost my thoughts are for Boris, Carrie and his family during this extremely worrying time. I sincerely hope for a swift recovery for him.

"The government is strong and united in fighting Covid19 and we are all working together to ensure the messages made by the Prime Minister are reinforced, stay home, protect the NHS, save lives.

"Dominic Raab is leading the charge very effectively and I am working closely with him during these very challenging times.

"This disease does not discriminate, it shows no fear or favour, and the whole country must be alert to its potentially devasting impact.

"I know that the Prime Minister will gain much comfort watching the UK join together to defeat Covid19.’’

Downing Street officials said Mr Johnson had been stable overnight, was receiving "standard oxygen treatment" and is not on a ventilator.

Earlier today, West Norfolk mayor Geoff Hipperson urged residents to stay at home for Easter and not breach the lockdown restrictions.