Prime minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for coronavirus

Number 10 has confirmed he has been diagnosed with the virus and is showing mild symptoms. 

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The PM tweeted on Friday morning to issue a statement.

It read: "Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus.

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

"Together we will beat this. #StayHomeSaveLives"

In the video Mr Johnson, 55, said that people should "be in no doubt that I can continue thanks to the wizardry of modern technology to communicate with all my top team to lead the national fightback against coronavirus".

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 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."

It is not known whether he is staying with his fiancee, Carrie Symonds, who is several months pregnant.