skynewspolitics--2020-05-22--Channel people smuggling 'major threat' to UK, ex-Border Force chief warns

The people smuggling trade in small boats crossing the English Channel is fast becoming a `` major threat to the UK border '' , MPs have been told .
The former head of the UK Border Force , Tony Smith , called for the creation of a new Anglo-French system of `` integrated border enforcement teams '' .
He told the Home Affairs Select Committee that people smugglers were adapting their practices to circumvent French patrols and head for UK waters .
Mr Smith was speaking a day after Sky News witnessed multiple incidents involving small boats in the Channel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ women and children were intercepted in five inflatables on the English side of the Channel - in the space of just a few hours early on Thursday morning .
In one incident , the French maritime patrol vessel Aramis shadowed a small boat for more than two hours after it left a beach near the French port of Calais .
A Sky News team filmed the migrant boat as it was still a few miles from UK territorial waters .
The French patrol vessel could be seen shadowing the inflatable , as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ English side of the Channel .
But there was no apparent attempt by the French to stop the migrant boat or turn it around .
As the inflatable crossed into UK waters the Border Force boat Speedwell arrived on scene , stopped the migrant boat and began transferring those onboard onto the British patrol boat .
A day earlier , another group of small boats was stopped in the Channel in similar circumstances , with 64 men , women and children , from countries including Iran , Iraq , Kuwait and Qatar taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to MPs , Tony Smith said : `` I think this is becoming a major threat to the UK border .
`` As I understand it , the French are in some circumstances able to prevent some boats from coming across , but we 've seen recent evidence produced in the media of that not happening . ''
He said the people smugglers were always tying to stay one step ahead of the authorities and would adapt tactics to reach the UK .
`` The migrants are told by the smugglers that if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Border Force 'you 'll be okay , you 'll get to the UK , but if picked up by the French - you 'll be sent back again ' .
`` This is all driven by money and smugglers .
They will be showing people pictures now of what we 've seen on Sky News yesterday , this is all you need to do , pay us the money , we will put you in a dinghy and push you off .
`` We need to send a very clear message that that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The committee was told the UK 's current model of border patrol was not adequate for the major challenges posed by the cross-Channel smugglers and Mr Smith said Britain and France needed a new joint immigration enforcement agency .
He said : `` I do think we need to have a very serious look at this and examine , firstly our own capability and are we capable of interdiction on the high seas , how would that work safely and are we able to return therm to their point of disembarkation . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ border enforcement teams '' as otherwise , he could not see the end `` to what is becoming a crisis '' .
A Home Office spokesman said the UK and France were co-operating closely in efforts to stop people smugglers exploiting vulnerable people .
Immigration minister Chris Philip said on Thursday French police had stopped about 100 migrants from crossing the Channel and said the UK is `` stepping up action '' to stop people coming across , and to prosecute those smuggling them over .

The people smuggling trade in small boats crossing the English Channel is fast becoming a "major threat to the UK border", MPs have been told.
The former head of the UK Border Force, Tony Smith, called for the creation of a new Anglo-French system of "integrated border enforcement teams".
He told the Home Affairs Select Committee that people smugglers were adapting their practices to circumvent French patrols and head for UK waters.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:04 Migrants rescued from dinghy in Channel
Mr Smith was speaking a day after Sky News witnessed multiple incidents involving small boats in the Channel.
A total of 57 men, women and children were intercepted in five inflatables on the English side of the Channel - in the space of just a few hours early on Thursday morning.
In one incident, the French maritime patrol vessel Aramis shadowed a small boat for more than two hours after it left a beach near the French port of Calais.
A Sky News team filmed the migrant boat as it was still a few miles from UK territorial waters.
The French patrol vessel could be seen shadowing the inflatable, as the 13 occupants got ever closer to the English side of the Channel.
But there was no apparent attempt by the French to stop the migrant boat or turn it around.
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Image: Migrants shadowed by a French naval vessel
As the inflatable crossed into UK waters the Border Force boat Speedwell arrived on scene, stopped the migrant boat and began transferring those onboard onto the British patrol boat.
A day earlier, another group of small boats was stopped in the Channel in similar circumstances, with 64 men, women and children, from countries including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait and Qatar taken to Dover harbour.
In his evidence to MPs, Tony Smith said: "I think this is becoming a major threat to the UK border.
"As I understand it, the French are in some circumstances able to prevent some boats from coming across, but we've seen recent evidence produced in the media of that not happening."
Image: Migrants wait to be rescued from their tiny dinghy
He said the people smugglers were always tying to stay one step ahead of the authorities and would adapt tactics to reach the UK.
"The migrants are told by the smugglers that if you get picked up by the UK Border Force 'you'll be okay, you'll get to the UK, but if picked up by the French - you'll be sent back again'.
"This is all driven by money and smugglers. They will be showing people pictures now of what we've seen on Sky News yesterday, this is all you need to do, pay us the money, we will put you in a dinghy and push you off.
"We need to send a very clear message that that's not going to work."
Image: UK Border Force has to wait until the small boats cross into British waters before picking them up
The committee was told the UK's current model of border patrol was not adequate for the major challenges posed by the cross-Channel smugglers and Mr Smith said Britain and France needed a new joint immigration enforcement agency.
He said: "I do think we need to have a very serious look at this and examine, firstly our own capability and are we capable of interdiction on the high seas, how would that work safely and are we able to return therm to their point of disembarkation."
Mr Smith said he wanted "integrated border enforcement teams" as otherwise, he could not see the end "to what is becoming a crisis".
Image: The UK Border Force patrols the waters
A Home Office spokesman said the UK and France were co-operating closely in efforts to stop people smugglers exploiting vulnerable people.
Immigration minister Chris Philip said on Thursday French police had stopped about 100 migrants from crossing the Channel and said the UK is "stepping up action" to stop people coming across, and to prosecute those smuggling them over.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-22--PM backs Cummings over lockdown breach - and gives a different version of events to police

Boris Johnson has backed his top aide Dominic Cummings after it emerged he travelled 260 miles from London to Durham during lockdown .
The prime minister 's chief adviser , who played a big role in drawing up the UK 's lockdown rules , travelled from his London home with his wife and son to stay with his elderly parents - even after developing coronavirus symptoms .
Durham Police confirmed they spoke to the owners of a property on 31 March - a week after the prime minister imposed the lockdown - after a call from someone reporting they had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Downing Street says nobody related to Mr Cummings was spoken to by police , and insists his actions were reasonable .
`` 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 , '' Number 10 said in a statement .
`` His sister and nieces had volunteered to help so he went to a house near to but separate from his extended family in case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 . ''
It 's very hard to see how Mr Cummings has complied with coronavirus guidelines when rule number one is to stay at home and self-isolate if anyone in your household has symptoms .
Families who have struggled with the virus may wonder why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get help with shopping from family and friends at his London home , rather than making the 260-mile trip to Durham .
Downing Street has also not addressed who cared for Mr Cummings 's young son after he had travelled to the North East .
Anonymous allies suggested last night that grandparents had helped .
If true , that would be a further breach of lockdown rules , potentially exposing two vulnerable individuals to the virus .
Then there is the tacit accusation from Number 10 that Durham Constabulary lied to the press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Cummings 's family about the trip .
Sir Ed Davey , acting leader of the Liberal Democrats , told Sky News : `` He must go .
He should either resign or the prime minister should sack him .
`` When millions of people have sacrificed so much ... it looks quite outrageous that the prime minister 's top adviser should breach the rules .
The prime minister has got to make his position clear .
I ca n't see that this is anything other than a breach of the guidelines .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ would choose to self-isolate with his elderly parents , who are in the `` vulnerable category '' .
`` I do n't think there can be one rule for everyone else and a different rule for the prime minister 's top team , '' said Mr Davey .
`` I ca n't see how Dominic Cummings is going to wriggle out of this one . ''
A Labour spokesperson said : `` The lockdown rules were very clear : if you or anyone in your household was suspected of having COVID-19 you must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` 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 . ''
A joint investigation by The Guardian and the Daily Mirror revealed that Mr Cummings escaped the capital at the same time as the PM was instructing people to stay at home and not travel to their second homes - with fines in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A Number 10 spokesperson had confirmed on 30 March that Mr Cummings was self-isolating after suffering COVID-19 symptoms .
The newspapers said a local resident saw Mr Cummings at the doorstep of his parents ' home with a child , believed to be his son , on 5 April .
Sky 's deputy political editor Sam Coates said after the news broke : `` Dominic Cummings is an essential person in this government in the view of many people in Downing Street .
They will fight very hard to keep him . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be an almighty fight in the days to come over Dominic Cummings 's future but do n't expect Boris Johnson to lose him in a hurry . ''
Sources close to Mr Cummings earlier cited comments made by deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries , who suggested in `` exceptional circumstances '' parents too unwell to look after a child could rely on family support , among other options .
But Dr Harries made her remarks almost two weeks after Mr Cummings travelled north .
Senior members of government have put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Gove , who said : `` Caring for your wife and child is not a crime . ''
Dominic Raab tweeted : `` It 's reasonable and fair to ask for an explanation on this .
And it has been provided : two parents with Coronavirus , were anxiously taking care of their young child .
Those now seeking to politicise it should take a long hard look in the mirror . ''
But the Scottish National Party 's ( SNP ) Westminster leader Ian Blackford said Mr Cummings 's position was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` He must resign or be sacked . ''
Breaches of lockdown restrictions have recently led to some high-profile resignations .
Scotland 's chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood quit her post after it emerged she had twice visited a second home in Fife .
Professor Neil Ferguson , one of the government 's most high-profile scientific advisers , resigned from the SAGE committee after it emerged a woman from outside his household had visited his home on two occasions .
Durham Police said given the `` whole ethos of the guidance was to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when known to be infected was most unwise '' .
`` To beat this crisis we need to be selfless as millions have been , '' acting commissioner Steve White said .
`` Incidents such as this do not help . ''
18 March : At his Downing Street briefing the PM said : `` Children should not be left with older grandparents , or older relatives , who may be particularly vulnerable or fall into some of the vulnerable groups . ''
22 March : Government advice is that people must remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to their second homes : `` Leaving your home - the place you live - to stay at another home is not allowed . ''
23 March : Strict lockdown rules are imposed which mean people can only leave their houses for essential travel .
27 March : Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock are confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus .
Mr Cummings is seen running along Downing Street .
Weekend of 28 and 29 March : Over this weekend , Mr Cummings developed coronavirus symptoms , Downing Street later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelled to his family 's farm in Durham - and it was on this date that Mr Cummings 's family were spoken to by police .
10 April : Deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries said being too ill to look after a small child was an `` exceptional circumstance '' and she pointed to accessing family support , among other options .
14 April : Mr Cummings is pictured in Downing Street after recovering from coronavirus .

Boris Johnson has backed his top aide Dominic Cummings after it emerged he travelled 260 miles from London to Durham during lockdown.
The prime minister's chief adviser, who played a big role in drawing up the UK's lockdown rules, travelled from his London home with his wife and son to stay with his elderly parents - even after developing coronavirus symptoms.
Durham Police confirmed they spoke to the owners of a property on 31 March - a week after the prime minister imposed the lockdown - after a call from someone reporting they had seen Mr Cummings in the area.
But Downing Street says nobody related to Mr Cummings was spoken to by police, and insists his actions were reasonable.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 SNP Westminster leader: Cummings should resign
"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," Number 10 said in a statement.
"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."
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Analysis: Number 10 statement raises more questions
By Rob Powell, political correspondent
It's very hard to see how Mr Cummings has complied with coronavirus guidelines when rule number one is to stay at home and self-isolate if anyone in your household has symptoms.
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Families who have struggled with the virus may wonder why the top adviser was not able to get help with shopping from family and friends at his London home, rather than making the 260-mile trip to Durham.
Downing Street has also not addressed who cared for Mr Cummings's young son after he had travelled to the North East.
Anonymous allies suggested last night that grandparents had helped. If true, that would be a further breach of lockdown rules, potentially exposing two vulnerable individuals to the virus.
Then there is the tacit accusation from Number 10 that Durham Constabulary lied to the press when it said officers had spoken to Mr Cummings's family about the trip.
Opposition parties said Mr Cummings's position is "untenable".
Sir Ed Davey, acting leader of the Liberal Democrats, told Sky News: "He must go. He should either resign or the prime minister should sack him.
"When millions of people have sacrificed so much... it looks quite outrageous that the prime minister's top adviser should breach the rules. The prime minister has got to make his position clear. I can't see that this is anything other than a breach of the guidelines."
He also questioned why Mr Cummings would choose to self-isolate with his elderly parents, who are in the "vulnerable category".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:15 PM's chief adviser seen running from Number 10
"I don't think there can be one rule for everyone else and a different rule for the prime minister's top team," said Mr Davey.
"I can't see how Dominic Cummings is going to wriggle out of this one."
A Labour spokesperson said: "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.
"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."
A joint investigation by The Guardian and the Daily Mirror revealed that Mr Cummings escaped the capital at the same time as the PM was instructing people to stay at home and not travel to their second homes - with fines in place for those flouting the rules.
A Number 10 spokesperson had confirmed on 30 March that Mr Cummings was self-isolating after suffering COVID-19 symptoms.
The newspapers said a local resident saw Mr Cummings at the doorstep of his parents' home with a child, believed to be his son, on 5 April.
Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates said after the news broke: "Dominic Cummings is an essential person in this government in the view of many people in Downing Street. They will fight very hard to keep him."
He added: "There is going to be an almighty fight in the days to come over Dominic Cummings's future but don't expect Boris Johnson to lose him in a hurry."
Sources close to Mr Cummings earlier cited comments made by deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries, who suggested in "exceptional circumstances" parents too unwell to look after a child could rely on family support, among other options.
But Dr Harries made her remarks almost two weeks after Mr Cummings travelled north.
Senior members of government have put their support behind Mr Cummings, including Michael Gove, who said: "Caring for your wife and child is not a crime."
Dominic Raab tweeted: "It's reasonable and fair to ask for an explanation on this. And it has been provided: two parents with Coronavirus, were anxiously taking care of their young child. Those now seeking to politicise it should take a long hard look in the mirror."
But the Scottish National Party's (SNP) Westminster leader Ian Blackford said Mr Cummings's position was "completely untenable", adding: "He must resign or be sacked."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 'If it's true, Cummings must resign or be sacked'
Breaches of lockdown restrictions have recently led to some high-profile resignations.
Scotland's chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood quit her post after it emerged she had twice visited a second home in Fife.
Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the government's most high-profile scientific advisers, resigned from the SAGE committee after it emerged a woman from outside his household had visited his home on two occasions.
Durham Police said given the "whole ethos of the guidance was to reduce spread... 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," acting commissioner Steve White said.
"Incidents such as this do not help."
A timeline of Dominic Cummings during lockdown:
18 March: At his Downing Street briefing the PM said: "Children should not be left with older grandparents, or older relatives, who may be particularly vulnerable or fall into some of the vulnerable groups."
22 March: Government advice is that people must remain in their primary residence and not travel to their second homes: "Leaving your home - the place you live - to stay at another home is not allowed."
23 March: Strict lockdown rules are imposed which mean people can only leave their houses for essential travel.
27 March: Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock are confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus. Mr Cummings is seen running along Downing Street.
Image: Mr Cummings walks along Downing Street at the end of April
Weekend of 28 and 29 March: Over this weekend, Mr Cummings developed coronavirus symptoms, Downing Street later confirmed.
31 March: Mr Cummings travelled to his family's farm in Durham - and it was on this date that Mr Cummings's family were spoken to by police.
10 April: Deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries said being too ill to look after a small child was an "exceptional circumstance" and she pointed to accessing family support, among other options.
14 April: Mr Cummings is pictured in Downing Street after recovering from coronavirus.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-22--Will PM's top aide resign? Number 10 appears determined to tough it out

As the prime minister 's right-hand man , Dominic Cummings has played a pivotal role in drawing up the lockdown rules and his decision to break them raises very awkward questions for him and Number 10 .
It emerged on Friday night - via the Daily Mirror and Guardian - that Mr Cummings 's family in Durham were spoken to by the police after their son broke lockdown rules by driving 260 miles to stay with them on their farm despite having coronavirus symptoms .
Others in senior positions who have broken the rules have resigned their posts .
Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after admitting an `` error in judgement '' after he broke the rules by allowing his lover to visit his home in lockdown .
Scotland 's deputy chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood was also forced to quit her job after making two trips to her second home during the lockdown .
But the prime minister 's chief adviser has no intention of following suit .
Instead , Number 10 moved into defence mode on Friday night as it was made clear Mr Cummings would not be standing down from his post .
Instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Mr Cummings and his wife , Mary Wakefield , were too ill to care for their five-year-old son so travelled to Mr Cummings 's parents home in Durham for help with their son .
And allies sought to justify that decision by referencing remarks made by deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries on 10 April when she described being too ill to look after a small child was an `` exceptional circumstance '' and she pointed to accessing family support ( among other options ) .
On Saturday we got a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
His actions were in line with coronavirus guidelines .
Mr Cummings believes he behaved reasonably and legally . ''
But will this defence wash with a public that has been told for weeks not to visit elderly relatives under any circumstances , and especially if you have the virus ?
You are not supposed to leave your home if you have symptoms , let alone jump in your car and drive for 250 miles .
As the neighbour who spotted Mr Cummings in his parents ' garden put it : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule for Dominic Cummings and one rule for the rest of us . ''
Mr Cummings helped Mr Johnson win an election framed around a message of the `` elite versus the people '' .
But his actions will be read by many as a sign that he is part of an elite for whom the rules do n't apply .
Number 10 will face this down .
I 'm told there is `` literally zero chance '' Mr Cummings will resign .
But brace for the backlash , from the opposition , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson as prime minister .

As the prime minister's right-hand man, Dominic Cummings has played a pivotal role in drawing up the lockdown rules and his decision to break them raises very awkward questions for him and Number 10.
It emerged on Friday night - via the Daily Mirror and Guardian - that Mr Cummings's family in Durham were spoken to by the police after their son broke lockdown rules by driving 260 miles to stay with them on their farm despite having coronavirus symptoms.
Others in senior positions who have broken the rules have resigned their posts.
Professor Neil Ferguson quit as a government adviser after admitting an "error in judgement" after he broke the rules by allowing his lover to visit his home in lockdown.
Scotland's deputy chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood was also forced to quit her job after making two trips to her second home during the lockdown.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:43 Cummings travelled with COVID-19 symptoms
But the prime minister's chief adviser has no intention of following suit. Instead, Number 10 moved into defence mode on Friday night as it was made clear Mr Cummings would not be standing down from his post.
Instead his colleagues began to mount his defence: Mr Cummings and his wife, Mary Wakefield, were too ill to care for their five-year-old son so travelled to Mr Cummings's parents home in Durham for help with their son.
And allies sought to justify that decision by referencing remarks made by deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries on 10 April when she described being too ill to look after a small child was an "exceptional circumstance" and she pointed to accessing family support (among other options).
On Saturday we got a statement from Number 10. It read: "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.
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"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."
But will this defence wash with a public that has been told for weeks not to visit elderly relatives under any circumstances, and especially if you have the virus? You are not supposed to leave your home if you have symptoms, let alone jump in your car and drive for 250 miles.
As the neighbour who spotted Mr Cummings in his parents' garden put it: "I was really annoyed. It's one rule for Dominic Cummings and one rule for the rest of us."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 Davey: 'If this is true, Cummings must resign or be sacked'
Mr Cummings helped Mr Johnson win an election framed around a message of the "elite versus the people". But his actions will be read by many as a sign that he is part of an elite for whom the rules don't apply.
Number 10 will face this down. I'm told there is "literally zero chance" Mr Cummings will resign. But brace for the backlash, from the opposition, restive Tories and the people who elected Mr Johnson as prime minister.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-23--They told us to stay home - then went out. The political figures who broke lockdown

Boris Johnson 's top adviser Dominic Cummings is not the only high-profile figure to have been caught breaching the UK 's lockdown restrictions .
Mr Cummings was spotted in Durham in March , more than 260 miles from where he lives in London - and after the prime minister instructed people they must stay at home .
Here are some of the others who have been in the spotlight for flouting the rules .
Professor Neil Ferguson resigned from the government 's scientific advisory group ( SAGE ) earlier this month after he broke coronavirus lockdown rules .
In a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ epidemiologist from Imperial College London said he had made an `` error of judgement '' .
It followed claims in The Daily Telegraph that he allowed a friend , reported to be his lover , Antonia Staats , to visit him at home - in breach of official rules he contributed to devising .
Scotland 's chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood resigned after breaching the UK lockdown by visiting her second home .
Dr Calderwood - who has been a leading voice in urging the public to obey the restrictions - was photographed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home on the east coast of the country , in early April .
She admitted it was the second time she had done so during the lockdown .
Downing Street last month backed Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick , who travelled 150 miles from London to a property he owns in rural Herefordshire .
Days after chairing a government news conference in Westminster to reinforce the `` stay at home '' message , Mr Jenrick appeared on Sky News via video link from the seventeenth century manor house he owns in the hamlet of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP 's website stating his family live 120 miles away in his constituency of Newark , as well as in London .
But the PM 's official spokesman said the minister had set out his reasons for the journey and `` we 're confident he complied with the social distancing rules '' , adding Mr Jenrick , his wife and children consider their Herefordshire residence to be their family home .
Stephen Kinnock , MP for Aberavon in South Wales , was shamed by police on social media .
He posted a photo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit his father on his birthday on 28 March - five days after the lockdown came into force .
They were social distancing , but South Wales Police responded : `` We know celebrating your Dad 's birthday is a lovely thing to do , however this is not essential travel .
We all have our part to play in this , we urge you to comply with ( lockdown ) restrictions , they are in place to keep us all safe .
Thank you . ''
Nigel Farage claimed he was visited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned against breaching lockdown rules after he travelled to the English coast to report on the migrant crisis .
The Brexit Party leader said officers had knocked on his door following complaints that he had defied stay-at-home orders by visiting Dover , and Pett Level Beach in East Sussex .
He condemned the police visit to his home on 4 May as `` lockdown lunacy '' and days later hand-delivered a letter of complaint to Kent Police .
It is not just politicians who have found themselves in hot water over social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was reportedly told off by police when he was spotted enjoying an early evening stroll in Cheshire with his neighbour , Manchester City and England full-back Kyle Walker , in early April .
The Sun reported the pair were out with their families when they bumped into each other at Prestbury golf course .
It came after Walker , only days earlier , was forced to apologise for hosting a gathering at his home .
He admitted breaking social distancing rules again weeks later after he visited his home city of Sheffield to @ @ @

Boris Johnson's top adviser Dominic Cummings is not the only high-profile figure to have been caught breaching the UK's lockdown restrictions.
Mr Cummings was spotted in Durham in March, more than 260 miles from where he lives in London - and after the prime minister instructed people they must stay at home.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:57 The PM's adviser said he
Here are some of the others who have been in the spotlight for flouting the rules.
Professor Neil Ferguson
Image: Professor Neil Ferguson was one of SAGE's most prominent members. Pic: Marshaj2020
Professor Neil Ferguson resigned from the government's scientific advisory group (SAGE) earlier this month after he broke coronavirus lockdown rules.
In a statement announcing his departure, the leading epidemiologist from Imperial College London said he had made an "error of judgement".
It followed claims in The Daily Telegraph that he allowed a friend, reported to be his lover, Antonia Staats, to visit him at home - in breach of official rules he contributed to devising.
Catherine Calderwood
Image: Scotland's CMO Catherine Calderwood resigned after breaching the UK lockdown
Scotland's chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood resigned after breaching the UK lockdown by visiting her second home.
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Dr Calderwood - who has been a leading voice in urging the public to obey the restrictions - was photographed by The Scottish Sun visiting her holiday home on the east coast of the country, in early April.
She admitted it was the second time she had done so during the lockdown.
Robert Jenrick
Image: Robert Jenrick has spoken at the daily government news conference to reinforce the 'stay at home' message
Downing Street last month backed Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick, who travelled 150 miles from London to a property he owns in rural Herefordshire.
Days after chairing a government news conference in Westminster to reinforce the "stay at home" message, Mr Jenrick appeared on Sky News via video link from the seventeenth century manor house he owns in the hamlet of Eye.
This is despite the Nottinghamshire MP's website stating his family live 120 miles away in his constituency of Newark, as well as in London.
But the PM's official spokesman said the minister had set out his reasons for the journey and "we're confident he complied with the social distancing rules", adding Mr Jenrick, his wife and children consider their Herefordshire residence to be their family home.
Stephen Kinnock
Image: Labour's Stephen Kinnock travelled to London from South Wales to visit his father on his birthday
Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberavon in South Wales, was shamed by police on social media.
He posted a photo on Twitter after travelling to London to visit his father on his birthday on 28 March - five days after the lockdown came into force.
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They were social distancing, but South Wales Police responded: "We know celebrating your Dad's birthday is a lovely thing to do, however this is not essential travel. We all have our part to play in this, we urge you to comply with (lockdown) restrictions, they are in place to keep us all safe. Thank you."
Nigel Farage
Image: Nigel Farage said it was 'lockdown lunacy' when he was visited by police after complaints he breached the rules
Nigel Farage claimed he was visited by police earlier this month and was warned against breaching lockdown rules after he travelled to the English coast to report on the migrant crisis.
The Brexit Party leader said officers had knocked on his door following complaints that he had defied stay-at-home orders by visiting Dover, and Pett Level Beach in East Sussex.
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He condemned the police visit to his home on 4 May as "lockdown lunacy" and days later hand-delivered a letter of complaint to Kent Police.
Other high-profile figures
It is not just politicians who have found themselves in hot water over social distancing breaches.
Former England captain Wayne Rooney was reportedly told off by police when he was spotted enjoying an early evening stroll in Cheshire with his neighbour, Manchester City and England full-back Kyle Walker, in early April.
The Sun reported the pair were out with their families when they bumped into each other at Prestbury golf course.
It came after Walker, only days earlier, was forced to apologise for hosting a gathering at his home. He admitted breaking social distancing rules again weeks later after he visited his home city of Sheffield to see family.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-23--A former PM branded him a 'career psychopath', but who is Dominic Cummings?

Boris Johnson 's senior adviser Dominic Cummings , who played a large role in drawing up the UK 's lockdown rules , has been accused of travelling 260 miles from his London home to stay with his parents in Durham .
Mr Cummings allegedly visited his parents ' farm while he was recovering from COVID-19 .
He has a record within Westminster as a radical reformer but also a divisive character , once described as a `` career psychopath '' by David Cameron .
However , since Mr Johnson appointed him , he is considered to be one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the early 2000s , Mr Cummings served as director of strategy for the Conservative Party .
He left the role and later branded then Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith as `` incompetent '' , adding he would be a `` worse prime minister than Tony Blair and must be replaced '' .
He later campaigned against Labour 's proposal for an elected regional assembly in the North East , before going on to work as a special adviser for Michael Gove .
When the Conservatives were elected to power as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cummings ' employment at Mr Gove 's Department for Education was banned by the then director of communications Andy Coulson .
After Mr Coulson resigned following allegations of phone hacking at the now defunct News of the World while he was editor , Mr Cummings became Mr Gove 's chief of staff .
Allegations were made by civil servants of an `` us-and-them aggressive , intimidating culture '' under the pair , before Mr Cummings left this role in 2013 in order to open a new free school .
Then prime minister Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Cummings as a `` career psychopath '' .
Ahead of the 2016 EU referendum , Mr Cummings joined the Vote Leave campaign but soon clashed with eurosceptic Tory MPs .
He survived an attempt to oust him from the campaign and was later credited as one of the most influential figures behind Vote Leave 's success under its `` Take Back Control '' slogan .
Benedict Cumberbatch portrayed Mr Cummings in a Channel 4 drama of the 2016 EU referendum campaign which focused on his role in covering a red bus with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arguing the cash could be used to fund the NHS .
Mr Cummings , a hate figure for many pro-EU politicians , said the £350m/NHS argument was `` necessary to win '' the campaign .
Last year , Mr Cummings refused to appear before the House of Commons ' digital , culture , media and sport committee as part of their fake news inquiry .
He was called to appear to respond to `` allegations made against the Vote Leave campaign '' during the inquiry and to `` clarify allegations about the unlawful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He was found in contempt of parliament over his refusing to attend .
Mr Cummings was a fierce critic of Theresa May 's handling of Brexit , saying her plan for leaving the EU was `` unacceptable bulls*** '' and attacked a `` truck load of c*** ideas '' from government ministers , who he called `` morons '' .
He also argued against the government 's decision to trigger the Article 50 notification to leave the EU so soon after the 2016 referendum , calling it an `` historic unforgivable blunder '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit secretary David Davis `` thick as mince , lazy as a toad , and vain as Narcissus '' .
Despite being the former chief of the Vote Leave campaign , Mr Cummings has not shied from laying into the European Research Group of Tory Brexiteer MPs .
He claimed the collective had been `` useful idiots '' for Remain .
Referring to the group , led by Jacob Rees-Mogg , he wrote in a blog : `` You should be treated like a metastasising tumour and excised from the UK body politic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as senior adviser at Number 10 when he became prime minister in the summer of 2019 .
The election victory in December 2019 gave Mr Johnson the political capital he needed to take bold decisions .
Mr Cummings soon set to work on his ambition to reshape Whitehall , issuing a recruitment call for data scientists , economists and `` weirdos and misfits with odd skills '' to shake up the Civil Service .
He has been no stranger to controversy during the coronavirus outbreak and in April , it was revealed Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ co-ordinating the response to the coronavirus pandemic as part of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) .
Concerns were raised over a lack of breadth in expertise of the meetings and political interference in science-based advice .
He was also seen failing to follow the two-metre social distancing rules as he walked along Downing Street flanked by fellow aide Cleo Watson on 14 April .

Boris Johnson's chief adviser has left Downing Street, box in hand, after a power struggle that resulted in the prime minister shaking up his leadership team.
Dominic Cummings has been a controversial and confrontational presence in Number 10, with his departure likely to be celebrated by dozens of MPs.
Mr Cummings was after all the architect of Vote Leave who also faced claims of breaking the coronavirus lockdown rules he had helped create.
His departure from Downing Street comes after a row with Mr Johnson over the ousting of the prime minister's spin doctor Lee Cain.
A "livid" prime minister reportedly told the two men he wanted them out "sooner rather than later".
However, while Mr Cummings is leaving Downing Street, his impact on Britain will be felt for many years to come.
The special adviser has played a vital role in this country's Brexit journey, but his unparalleled power and uncompromising way of doing politics has corroded Mr Johnson's relationship with his party, with Whitehall and the media.
Mr Cummings badly damaged the prime minister's relationship with the public too after a mid-lockdown trip to Durham which resulted in national scandal.
The prime minister's chief adviser faced a barrage of criticism after he travelled 260 miles to his parents home for childcare support after his wife displayed coronavirus symptoms.
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Mr Cummings made the trip despite strict COVID-19 isolation rules.
Members of the public also claimed they saw him in Barnard Castle, a picturesque town 30 miles from Durham.
Mr Johnson stood by his side - insisting he acted "responsibly, legally and with integrity".
Mr Cummings has a reputation with some within Westminster as a political Svengali and radical reformer - but he is also a divisive character, having once been described as a "career psychopath" by David Cameron.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:57 'I behaved responsibly and legally'
Following his appointment by Mr Johnson, he was considered to be one of the most powerful people in Number 10.
In the early 2000s, Mr Cummings served as director of strategy for the Conservative Party.
He left the role and later branded then Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith as "incompetent", adding he would be a "worse prime minister than Tony Blair and must be replaced".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:58 Dominic Cummings found hundreds of miles from home
He later campaigned against Labour's proposal for an elected regional assembly in the North East, before going on to work as a special adviser for Michael Gove.
When the Conservatives were elected to power as part of the coalition government in 2010, Mr Cummings' employment at Mr Gove's Department for Education was banned by the then director of communications Andy Coulson.
After Mr Coulson resigned following allegations of phone hacking at the now defunct News of the World while he was editor, Mr Cummings became Mr Gove's chief of staff.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 'If it's true, Cummings must resign or be sacked'
Allegations were made by civil servants of an "us-and-them aggressive, intimidating culture" under the pair, before Mr Cummings left this role in 2013 in order to open a new free school.
Then prime minister Mr Cameron is later reported to have described Mr Cummings as a "career psychopath".
Ahead of the 2016 EU referendum, Mr Cummings joined the Vote Leave campaign but soon clashed with eurosceptic Tory MPs.
He survived an attempt to oust him from the campaign and was later credited as one of the most influential figures behind Vote Leave's success under its "Take Back Control" slogan.
Benedict Cumberbatch portrayed Mr Cummings in a Channel 4 drama of the 2016 EU referendum campaign which focused on his role in covering a red bus with the disputed £350m a week figure, arguing the cash could be used to fund the NHS.
Mr Cummings, a hate figure for many pro-EU politicians, said the £350m/NHS argument was "necessary to win" the campaign.
Last year, Mr Cummings refused to appear before the House of Commons' digital, culture, media and sport committee as part of their fake news inquiry.
He was called to appear to respond to "allegations made against the Vote Leave campaign" during the inquiry and to "clarify allegations about the unlawful coordination of EU referendum campaigns".
He was found in contempt of parliament over his refusing to attend.
Mr Cummings was a fierce critic of Theresa May's handling of Brexit, saying her plan for leaving the EU was "unacceptable bulls***" and attacked a "truck load of c*** ideas" from government ministers, who he called "morons".
He also argued against the government's decision to trigger the Article 50 notification to leave the EU so soon after the 2016 referendum, calling it an "historic unforgivable blunder".
In 2017, he branded then Brexit secretary David Davis "thick as mince, lazy as a toad, and vain as Narcissus".
Despite being the former chief of the Vote Leave campaign, Mr Cummings has not shied from laying into the European Research Group of Tory Brexiteer MPs.
He claimed the collective had been "useful idiots" for Remain.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:15 PM's chief adviser seen running from No 10
Referring to the group, led by Jacob Rees-Mogg, he wrote in a blog: "You should be treated like a metastasising tumour and excised from the UK body politic."
Mr Johnson appointed Mr Cummings as senior adviser at Number 10 when he became prime minister in the summer of 2019.
The election victory in December 2019 gave Mr Johnson the political capital he needed to take bold decisions.
Mr Cummings soon set to work on his ambition to reshape Whitehall, issuing a recruitment call for data scientists, economists and "weirdos and misfits with odd skills" to shake up the Civil Service.
No stranger to controversy during the coronavirus outbreak and in April, it was revealed Mr Cummings had been present at meetings co-ordinating the response to the coronavirus pandemic as part of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Concerns were raised over a lack of breadth in expertise of the meetings and political interference in science-based advice.
He was also seen failing to follow the two-metre social distancing rules as he walked along Downing Street flanked by fellow aide Cleo Watson on 14 April.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-22--What did Dominic Cummings do and when? A timeline

Downing Street adviser Dominic Cummings broke lockdown rules by leaving London to travel to his family 's home in Durham .
Here is a timeline of the lockdown measures and Mr Cummings 's movements : At his Downing Street briefing the PM said : `` Everyone - everyone - must follow the advice to protect themselves and their families , but also - more importantly - to protect the wider public .
So stay at home for seven days if you think you have the symptoms ... '' Whole household to stay at home for 14 days if one member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms ... Children should not be left with older grandparents , or older relatives , who may be particularly vulnerable or fall into some of the vulnerable groups . ''
Government guidance states : `` People must remain in their primary residence .
Not taking these steps puts additional pressure on communities and services that are already at risk ... Leaving your home - the place you live - to stay at another home is not allowed . ''
Strict lockdown rules are imposed which mean people can only leave their houses for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the nation , Boris Johnson says people must stay at home to curb the spread of coronavirus .
Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock are confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus .
Mr Cummings is seen running along Downing Street shortly after the prime minister posts a video saying he has contracted the virus .
Over this weekend , Mr Cummings is said to have developed coronavirus symptoms .
Downing Street confirms Mr Cummings is self-isolating after developing symptoms of the virus .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify , Spreaker According to a joint investigation by The Guardian and the Daily Mirror , Mr Cummings travelled to his family 's farm in Durham - and it was on this date that Mr Cummings 's family were spoken to by the police .
A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said : `` 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 . ''
Downing Street has denied the police spoke to Mr Cummings or his family - and said the aide had acted `` reasonably '' and in line with lockdown rules .
`` Owing to his wife being infected with suspected coronavirus and the high likelihood that he would himself become unwell , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his young child could be properly cared for , '' Number 10 said in a statement .
`` 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 . ''
Deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries said being too ill to look after a small child was an `` exceptional circumstance '' and she pointed to accessing family support , among other options .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ after recovering from coronavirus .
`` I felt breathless , sometimes achy , but Dom could n't get out of bed , '' she said .
`` Day in , day out for 10 days he lay doggo with a high fever and spasms that made the muscles lump and twitch in his legs .
He could breathe , but only in a limited , shallow way . ''

Dominic Cummings has faced calls to resign after he drove from London to County Durham in spite of lockdown restrictions.
Speaking at a news conference on Monday, the prime minister's senior adviser gave his own account of his events.
Here is a timeline of the lockdown measures and Mr Cummings' movements:
18 March
At a Downing Street briefing, Prime Minister Boris Johnson says "everyone" must follow the advice to "stay at home for seven days" if they believe they have coronavirus symptoms.
He said that if one member of a household thinks they have COVID-19 symptoms, then the whole household must stay at home for 14 days.
He added that in those circumstances: "Children should not be left with older grandparents, or older relatives, who may be particularly vulnerable or fall into some of the vulnerable groups."
22 March
Government guidance states that people must remain "in their primary residence", adding that "not taking these steps puts additional pressure on communities and services that are already at risk...Leaving your home - the place you live - to stay at another home is not allowed".
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23 March
Strict lockdown rules are imposed which mean people can only leave their houses for essential travel.
In a TV address to the nation, Mr Johnson says people must stay at home to curb the spread of coronavirus.
Image: Boris Johnson announced lockdown measures in a TV address to the nation. Pic: Andrew Parsons
27 March
Mr Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock are confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus.
Mr Cummings is seen running along Downing Street shortly after the prime minister posts a video saying he has contracted the virus.
Image: Dominic Cummings seen running from 10 Downing Street on 27 March
Explaining his actions at Monday's news conference, Mr Cummings said: "I suddenly got a call from my wife who was looking after our four-year-old child. She told me she suddenly felt badly ill."
He said that after he went home, his wife felt better and he had returned to work.
That evening, he said he "drove up to Durham" and arrived at "roughly midnight" with his family.
28 March
Mr Cummings says he woke up "in pain and clearly had COVID symptoms, including a bad headache and a serious fever".
30 March
Downing Street confirms Mr Cummings is self-isolating after developing symptoms of the virus.
Durham Police are "made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city".
The force says 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".
1 April
Durham Constabulary says that on this date, an officer spoke to Mr Cummings' father, who confirmed that the family were staying at the property.
In a statement, police said: "We can further confirm that our officer gave no specific advice on coronavirus to any members of the family and that Durham Constabulary deemed that no further action was required in that regard.
"Our officer did, however, provide the family with advice on security issues."
2 April
During the night, Mr Cummings' son is ill so the couple "took medical advice which was to call 999".
The child is taken to hospital by ambulance.
Mr Cummings says he was too ill to go but his wife stayed the night with their son.
3 April
Mr Cummings drives to the hospital to pick his wife and son up, but says he did not leave the car or have any contact with anyone during the trip to the hospital.
5 April
A neighbour tells the Daily Mirror and The Guardian they have spotted Mr Cummings in his parents' garden.
"I got the shock of my life as I looked over to the gates and saw him," they said.
Mr Cummings later says the nearest homes to his parents are around half a mile away, and there are no neighbours "in the normal sense of the word".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 14:11 In full: Dominic Cummings' statement
10 April
England's deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries says being too ill to look after a small child was an "exceptional circumstance" to the lockdown rules and she pointed to accessing family support, among other options.
11 April
After seeking medical advice, Mr Cummings is told he is able to return to work and seek childcare.
12 April
Mr Cummings and his family were seen walking by the River Tees in Barnard Castle, 30 miles from Durham, before getting into a car around lunchtime, reports by the Sunday Mirror suggested on 23 May.
During Monday's news conference, Mr Cummings confirmed the trip took place, claiming it was to check if he was well enough to drive home.
He said: "My wife was very worried, particularly as my eyesight seemed to have been affected by the disease.
14 April
Mr Cummings is pictured in Downing Street after recovering from coronavirus symptoms.
Image: Dominic Cummings attends the government's daily briefing on 14 April
19 April
More than a fortnight after the first sighting of Mr Cummings in Durham, and five days after being photographed back at work in Downing Street, it is claimed he was seen in the North East again.
Reports suggest that on the second visit, passers-by saw Mr Cummings at Houghall Woods, near his parents' home.
Mr Cummings has denied this, saying: "Photos and data on my phone prove this to be false, I was in London on that day."
25 April
In a Spectator column, Mr Cummings's wife, Mary Wakefield, detailed his illness.
"I felt breathless, sometimes achy, but Dom couldn't get out of bed," she said.
Image: Dominic Cummings is seen at Downing Street at the end of April
"Day in, day out for 10 days he lay doggo with a high fever and spasms that made the muscles lump and twitch in his legs. He could breathe, but only in a limited, shallow way."
13 May
The government lifts the restriction on how far people can drive to reach the countryside and take exercise.
Visits and overnight stays to second homes remain prohibited.
22 May
The Daily Mirror and The Guardian break the news of Mr Cummings' trip to Durham.
23 May
Downing Street appears to be standing by Mr Cummings, saying in a statement: "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.
"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."
Mr Cummings also tells journalists outside his home: "I behaved reasonably and legally."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 14:39 Minister on Cummings - full uncomfortable interview
When a reporter suggests that his actions did not look good, he responds: "Who cares about good looks?
"It's a question of doing the right thing. It's not about what you guys think."
Dr Harries clarifies that travelling during lockdown was permissible if "there was an extreme risk to life", with a "safeguarding clause" attached to all advice to prevent vulnerable people being stuck at home with no support.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party and the SNP writes a letter to Cabinet Secretary Sir Mark Sedwill demanding an inquiry into what happened.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 'People are rightly angry with Cummings' - shadow policing minister
In another evening statement, a Number 10 spokeswoman accuses the Mirror and The Guardian of writing "inaccurate" stories about Mr Cummings, including claims he had returned to Durham after going back to work in Downing Street on 14 April.
"We will not waste our time answering a stream of false allegations about Mr Cummings from campaigning newspapers," the spokeswoman said.
24 May
When asked by a journalist outside his home whether he had returned to Durham in April, Mr Cummings replies: "No, I did not."
A host of Conservative MPs call for him to resign or for Mr Johnson to sack him, including Sir Roger Gale, Simon Hoare and Caroline Noakes.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 'Cummings has not abided by his own rules' - Conservative MP Steve Baker
Eyewitness Robin Lees, a 70-year-old retired chemistry teacher, tells Sky News he saw someone who "looked like" Dominic Cummings on a family walk 25 miles outside of Durham during lockdown and wrote down what he described as a "distinctive" number plate.
Later, Mr Cummings is seen entering Downing Street.
During a coronavirus briefing, the prime minister defends Mr Cummings, saying he "acted responsibly, legally and with integrity".
Mr Johnson says his top aide "followed the instincts of every father and every parent", adding, "I do not mark him down for that".
25 May
Mr Cummings gives a news conference from Downing Street, saying: "I don't regret what I did."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-23--Plaid Cymru MP arrested on suspicion of assault

A Plaid Cymru MP has had the whip removed after he was arrested on suspicion of assault .
Jonathan Edwards , 44 , of Ammanford , was arrested on Wednesday by police in South Wales .
He has represented Carmarthen East and Dinefwr since 2010 , but will have to sit as independent until police have carried out their inquiries .
Plaid Cymru confirmed it had withdrawn the whip from Mr Edwards and he is `` fully complying '' with detectives after being bailed .
A party spokesman said in a statement : `` On 20 May , Jonathan Edwards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an incident .
`` The party whip has been withdrawn pending the conclusion of a police investigation .
Mr Edwards has accepted this course of action and is complying fully with the police inquires .
`` It would be inappropriate for the party to comment further at this time . ''
A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesman added : `` A 44-year-old man from Ammanford was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of assault .
He has been released on bail .
We can can not confirm name or any further details at this stage .
@

A Plaid Cymru MP has had the whip removed after he was arrested on suspicion of assault.
Jonathan Edwards, 44, of Ammanford, was arrested on Wednesday by police in South Wales.
He has represented Carmarthen East and Dinefwr since 2010, but will have to sit as independent until police have carried out their inquiries.
Plaid Cymru confirmed it had withdrawn the whip from Mr Edwards and he is "fully complying" with detectives after being bailed.
A party spokesman said in a statement: "On 20 May, Jonathan Edwards MP was arrested following a report of an incident.
"The party whip has been withdrawn pending the conclusion of a police investigation. Mr Edwards has accepted this course of action and is complying fully with the police inquires.
"It would be inappropriate for the party to comment further at this time."
A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesman added: "A 44-year-old man from Ammanford was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of assault. He has been released on bail. We can cannot confirm name or any further details at this stage."


skynewspolitics--2020-05-22--Summer holidays in doubt after two-week quarantine rule imposed - how will it work?

Questions remain over whether Britons will be able to go on holiday abroad this summer after the home secretary announced that two-week quarantines will be imposed on new arrivals to the UK and returning citizens from 8 June .
Speaking at the Downing Street daily briefing on Friday , Priti Patel also said the government 's guidance continued to be that all but essential travel abroad was advised against .
The mandatory self-isolation measure is aimed at preventing a new wave of coronavirus from overseas .
People coming from Ireland , medics tackling COVID-19 and seasonal agricultural workers will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a form providing their contact and travel information so they can be traced if infections arise .
They will also be contacted regularly during the 14 days to ensure their compliance .
Those who breach the terms of self-isolation will be hit with a £1,000 fixed penalty notice in England or a prosecution with an unlimited fine .
Devolved nations can set out their own enforcement approaches .
Border Force will be able to refuse entry to foreign citizens who are not UK residents during border checks , while removal from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resort , the Home Office said .
Arrivals will be advised to use personal transport to head to their accommodation and once there not leave for 14 days .
They will also not be allowed to accept visitors , unless they are providing essential support , and should not go out to buy food or other essentials `` where they can rely on others '' , the Home Office added .
The department said if accommodation does not meet necessary requirements , with hotels or with friends and family listed as options , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` facilities arranged by the government '' .
The Home Office also said arrivals would be encouraged to download the NHS contact-tracing app at the border `` once rolled out nationally '' .
Ms Patel said : `` As the world begins to emerge from what we hope is the worst of the coronavirus pandemic , we must look to the future and protect the British public by reducing the risk of cases crossing our border .
`` We are introducing these new measures now to keep the transmission rate down and prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fully expect the majority of people will do the right thing and abide by these measures .
But we will take enforcement action against the minority of people who endanger the safety of others . ''
The announcement is likely to anger the aviation industry , with airlines warning the measures could be disastrous for them .
Ministers were continuing to consider forging so-called air bridges with other nations that have low transmission rates in order to allow some international travel .
: : Listen to Coronavirus : In This Together on Apple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions will also be asked why the measure was not imposed early on in the pandemic .
Home Office chief scientific adviser Professor John Aston said : `` The scientific advice so far has been clear : while there has been significant community transmission of the virus within the UK , the impact of putting in place additional border restrictions would have been negligible to the spread of the virus .
`` However , the spread of the virus within the UK is now lessening .
We have been successful in getting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of new people infected by one infected person - below 1 .
`` As the number of infections within the UK drops , we must now manage the risk of transmissions being reintroduced from elsewhere . ''
A full list of exemptions from the measure will be published online , but it will include : • Medical professionals travelling to help the coronavirus effort • Anyone moving from within the common travel area covering Ireland , the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man • Seasonal agricultural workers who will self-isolate on the @ @ @ @

Questions remain over whether Britons will be able to go on holiday abroad this summer after the home secretary announced two-week quarantines will be imposed on new arrivals to the UK and returning citizens from 8 June.
Speaking at the Downing Street daily briefing on Friday, Priti Patel also said the government's guidance continued to be that all but essential travel abroad was advised against.
The mandatory self-isolation measure is aimed at preventing a new wave of coronavirus from overseas.
People coming from Ireland, medics tackling COVID-19 and seasonal agricultural workers will be exempt.
Passengers will have to fill in a form providing their contact and travel information so they can be traced if infections arise.
They will also be contacted regularly during the 14 days to ensure their compliance.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 Home Secretary Priti Patel - £1,000 fines for passengers breaking isolation rules
Those who breach the terms of self-isolation will be hit with a £1,000 fixed penalty notice in England or a prosecution with an unlimited fine. Devolved nations can set out their own enforcement approaches.
Today, the French government revealed that any UK passengers arriving in France from 8 June onwards will be forced to self-isolate for 14 days.
Spanish passengers arriving in France will be asked to quarantine for two weeks from Monday, it added.
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Across the channel, UK Border Force will be able to refuse entry to foreign citizens who are not UK residents during checks, while removal from the country could be used as a last resort, the Home Office said.
Arrivals will be advised to use personal transport to head to their accommodation and once there not leave for 14 days.
They will also not be allowed to accept visitors, unless they are providing essential support, and should not go out to buy food or other essentials "where they can rely on others", the Home Office added.
The department said if accommodation does not meet necessary requirements, with hotels or with friends and family listed as options, the person will have to self-isolate in "facilities arranged by the government".
The Home Office also said arrivals would be encouraged to download the NHS contact-tracing app at the border "once rolled out nationally".
Ms Patel said: "As the world begins to emerge from what we hope is the worst of the coronavirus pandemic, we must look to the future and protect the British public by reducing the risk of cases crossing our border.
"We are introducing these new measures now to keep the transmission rate down and prevent a devastating second wave.
"I fully expect the majority of people will do the right thing and abide by these measures. But we will take enforcement action against the minority of people who endanger the safety of others."
The announcement is likely to anger the aviation industry, with airlines warning the measures could be disastrous for them.
Ministers were continuing to consider forging so-called air bridges with other nations that have low transmission rates in order to allow some international travel.
:: Listen to Coronavirus: In This Together on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Spreaker
Fresh questions will also be asked why the measure was not imposed early on in the pandemic.
Home Office chief scientific adviser Professor John Aston said: "The scientific advice so far has been clear: while there has been significant community transmission of the virus within the UK, the impact of putting in place additional border restrictions would have been negligible to the spread of the virus.
"However, the spread of the virus within the UK is now lessening. We have been successful in getting the reproduction number R - the average number of new people infected by one infected person - below 1.
"As the number of infections within the UK drops, we must now manage the risk of transmissions being reintroduced from elsewhere."
A full list of exemptions from the measure will be published online, but it will include:


skynewspolitics--2020-05-23--Cummings made second trip to Durham during lockdown - reports

Dominic Cummings is under further pressure to resign after allegations he broke lockdown rules for a second time .
The prime minister 's top adviser drove 260 miles from London to Durham with his wife and young son in March to self-isolate at a family property despite strict restrictions against long-distance journeys .
Now , the Sunday Mirror and The Observer claim he made a second trip to Durham and was seen there on 19 April - five days after being photographed in Downing Street on his return to Westminster .
In the latest allegations , he was reportedly spotted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Durham home on 19 April .
And a week earlier , the papers said he was seen in Barnard Castle , 30 miles away from the city , during the period he was believed to be self-isolating .
A Number 10 statement issued on Saturday evening said : `` Yesterday the Mirror and Guardian wrote inaccurate stories about Mr Cummings .
`` Today they are writing more inaccurate stories including claims that Mr Cummings returned to Durham after returning to work in Downing Street on 14 April .
We will not waste our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about Mr Cummings from campaigning newspapers . ''
Sometime in late March , Mr Cummings allegedly broke lockdown rules when he travelled from London to Durham with his wife and son to stay near his elderly parents - after his spouse had coronavirus symptoms .
Mr Cummings said he went to the North East so he would have help from relatives to care for his four-year-old son if he also became unwell .
On 30 March , Number 10 said Mr Cummings showed COVID-19 signs .
A Downing Street spokesman said on Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 . ''
Mr Cummings has insisted he `` behaved reasonably and legally '' when asked by reporters this weekend why he thought it was reasonable to make the trip .
Durham police confirmed on Friday they spoke to the owners of a property on 31 March , a week after the prime minister imposed the lockdown .
But Downing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was spoken to by police , and it was entirely right for him to seek childcare for his four-year-old son .
On Saturday evening , Durham police confirmed officers had spoken to Mr Cummings ' father during the lockdown period .
In a statement , the force said : `` On Tuesday , 31 March , our officers were made aware that Dominic Cummings had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city .
`` At the request of Mr Cummings ' father , an officer made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` During that conversation , Mr Cummings ' father confirmed that his son had travelled with his family from London to the North-East and was self-isolating in part of the property .
`` Durham Constabulary deemed that no further action was required .
However , the officer did provide advice in relation to security issues . ''
A Labour source said of the fresh allegations : `` If these latest revelations are true , why on earth were Cabinet ministers sent out this afternoon to defend Dominic Cummings ?
`` We need an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get to the bottom of this matter .
`` It can not be right that there is one rule for the prime minister 's adviser and another for the British people . ''
Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey urged the prime minister to sack Mr Cummings .
During a briefing on Saturday afternoon , prior to the second visit allegations , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps stated Mr Cummings had the `` full support '' of the PM .
Asked to clarify guidance about travelling during lockdown , deputy chief medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` clear '' someone with symptoms should self-isolate along with their family .
Dr Harries said if there was a `` safeguarding issue '' where a child had `` no support '' , that was also an issue .
`` There 's always a safeguarding clause in all of the advice , '' she said , adding : `` The interpretation of that advice is probably for others . ''
On Saturday morning , senior members of government had voiced their support for Mr Cummings , including Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson will hold a cabinet meeting to discuss ways to slowly end lockdown restrictions for certain sectors .
And the track and test system is set to be launched at the end of the week .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker 18 March : At his Downing Street briefing the PM said : `` Children should not be left with older grandparents , or older relatives , who may be particularly vulnerable or fall into some of the vulnerable groups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that people must remain in their primary residence and not travel to their second homes : `` Leaving your home - the place you live - to stay at another home is not allowed . ''
23 March : Strict lockdown rules are imposed which mean people can only leave their houses for essential travel .
27 March : Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock are confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus .
Mr Cummings is seen running along Downing Street .
Weekend of 28 and 29 March : Over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms , Downing Street later confirmed .
31 March : Mr Cummings travelled to his family 's farm in Durham - and it was on this date that Mr Cummings ' family were spoken to by police .
10 April : Deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries said being too ill to look after a small child was an `` exceptional circumstance '' and she pointed to accessing family support , among other options .
12 April : Mr Cummings was seen in Barnard Castle , 30 miles from his parents ' Durham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April : Mr Cummings is pictured in Downing Street after recovering from coronavirus .
19 April : He was allegedly seen in Durham after apparently returning there , according to reports .

Dominic Cummings is under further pressure to resign after allegations he broke lockdown rules for a second time.
The prime minister's top adviser drove 260 miles from London to Durham with his wife and young son in March to self-isolate at a family property despite strict restrictions against long-distance journeys.
Now, the Sunday Mirror and The Observer claim he made a second trip to Durham and was seen there on 19 April - five days after being photographed in Downing Street on his return to Westminster.
Image: Dominic Cummings is pictured leaving Downing Street on 14 April
In the latest allegations, he was reportedly spotted in Houghall Woods near his parents' Durham home on 19 April.
And a week earlier, the papers said he was seen in Barnard Castle, 30 miles away from the city, during the period he was believed to be self-isolating.
Downing Street has branded the latest claims "false".
A Number 10 statement issued on Saturday evening said: "Yesterday the Mirror and Guardian wrote inaccurate stories about Mr Cummings.
"Today they are writing more inaccurate stories including claims that Mr Cummings returned to Durham after returning to work in Downing Street on 14 April. We will not waste our time answering a stream of false allegations about Mr Cummings from campaigning newspapers."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 Cummings 'obviously not' going to resign
Sometime in late March, Mr Cummings allegedly broke lockdown rules when he travelled from London to Durham with his wife and son to stay near his elderly parents - after his spouse had coronavirus symptoms.
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Mr Cummings said he went to the North East so he would have help from relatives to care for his four-year-old son if he also became unwell. On 30 March, Number 10 said Mr Cummings showed COVID-19 signs.
A Downing Street spokesman said on Saturday: "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."
Mr Cummings has insisted he "behaved reasonably and legally" when asked by reporters this weekend why he thought it was reasonable to make the trip.
Durham police confirmed on Friday they spoke to the owners of a property on 31 March, a week after the prime minister imposed the lockdown.
But Downing Street said nobody related to Mr Cummings was spoken to by police, and it was entirely right for him to seek childcare for his four-year-old son.
On Saturday evening, Durham police confirmed officers had spoken to Mr Cummings' father during the lockdown period.
In a statement, the force said: "On Tuesday, 31 March, our officers were made aware that Dominic Cummings had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:48 MPs respond to Cummings lockdown breach
"At the request of Mr Cummings' father, an officer made contact the following morning by telephone.
"During that conversation, Mr Cummings' father confirmed that his son had travelled with his family from London to the North-East and was self-isolating in part of the property.
"Durham Constabulary deemed that no further action was required. However, the officer did provide advice in relation to security issues."
A Labour source said of the fresh allegations: "If these latest revelations are true, why on earth were Cabinet ministers sent out this afternoon to defend Dominic Cummings?
"We need an urgent investigation by the Cabinet Secretary to get to the bottom of this matter.
"It cannot be right that there is one rule for the prime minister's adviser and another for the British people."
Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey urged the prime minister to sack Mr Cummings.
During a briefing on Saturday afternoon, prior to the second visit allegations, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps stated Mr Cummings had the "full support" of the PM.
Asked to clarify guidance about travelling during lockdown, deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said it was "clear" someone with symptoms should self-isolate along with their family.
Dr Harries said if there was a "safeguarding issue" where a child had "no support", that was also an issue.
"There's always a safeguarding clause in all of the advice," she said, adding: "The interpretation of that advice is probably for others."
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On Saturday morning, senior members of government had voiced their support for Mr Cummings, including Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.
On Monday, Mr Johnson will hold a cabinet meeting to discuss ways to slowly end lockdown restrictions for certain sectors.
And the track and test system is set to be launched at the end of the week.
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A timeline of Dominic Cummings during lockdown:
18 March: At his Downing Street briefing the PM said: "Children should not be left with older grandparents, or older relatives, who may be particularly vulnerable or fall into some of the vulnerable groups."
22 March: Government advice is that people must remain in their primary residence and not travel to their second homes: "Leaving your home - the place you live - to stay at another home is not allowed."
23 March: Strict lockdown rules are imposed which mean people can only leave their houses for essential travel.
27 March: Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock are confirmed to have tested positive for coronavirus. Mr Cummings is seen running along Downing Street.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:15 Mr Cummings is seen running from No 10
Weekend of 28 and 29 March: Over this weekend, Mr Cummings developed coronavirus symptoms, Downing Street later confirmed.
31 March: Mr Cummings travelled to his family's farm in Durham - and it was on this date that Mr Cummings' family were spoken to by police.
10 April: Deputy chief medical officer Jenny Harries said being too ill to look after a small child was an "exceptional circumstance" and she pointed to accessing family support, among other options.
12 April: Mr Cummings was seen in Barnard Castle, 30 miles from his parents' Durham home, according to reports.
14 April: Mr Cummings is pictured in Downing Street after recovering from coronavirus.
19 April: He was allegedly seen in Durham after apparently returning there, according to reports.
25 April: In a Spectator column, Mr Cummings' wife, Mary Wakefield, detailed his illness.


skynewspolitics--2020-05-23--Fresh claims against Cummings force Downing Street to change tack

For most of Saturday , Downing Street tried to frame events as one individual 's private and difficult decision about what to do with a four-year-old when both parents potentially have coronavirus .
The opposition maintain this is a tale about hypocrisy : a story about one rule for those in the citadel of power and another for the masses .
Framing which is ironic , perhaps , given Dominic Cummings - the senior adviser to Boris Johnson , the man who directed Vote Leave and the person at the centre of this furore - has made a career of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the views of the wider population .
It is no doubt uncomfortable for him to switch sides so abruptly , as demonstrated by a YouGov poll that found 52 % saying he should resign as a senior adviser to the PM .
On Saturday night , Number 10 changed tack in the face of reports in the Mirror and Observer of a second trip to Durham during the lockdown .
Having defended Mr Cumming 's reasonableness , now the goal is to denigrate the messenger and all those that carry the claims of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will have heard Transport Secretary Grant Shapps at the press conference confirm that Mr Cummings did indeed travel 260 miles at the height of the lockdown , now Number 10 's line is that Friday night 's reports are in some ways inaccurate .
And Number 10 maintain that tonight 's allegations about a second visit contain some falsehoods , although they will not stoop to point out what they are .
`` We will not waste our time answering a stream of false allegations about Mr Cummings from campaigning newspapers , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Cummings ' aides have judged they do not want to get tangled up in the detail of timelines , eyewitness accounts and an incriminating number plate , and instead are appealing to their natural allies in politics and the wider public to fight for their team .
In doing so , channelling the very essence of the culture wars .
One wonders about the private reflections of some members of the cabinet like Rishi Sunak or Matt Hancock who tweeted in support of Mr Cummings , before the fresh allegations surfaced .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the press conference that Mr Cummings was `` staying put , in one place , with his family '' .
Or about the views of Mr Cummings among those brave cabinet ministers who did not take to Twitter to clear his name : Ben Wallace , the defence secretary , Therese Coffey , the work and pensions secretary , and Simon Hart , the Welsh secretary , to name three conspicuously absent from the loyalty test .
Fewest marks of all go to those cabinet ministers like Priti Patel and Gavin Williamson who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others , but not put views in their own words , thereby sitting on the fence ready to come down on either side depending on events .
Or perhaps they are the swing voters in this drama , who could force Mr Johnson to sack Mr Cummings if new facts emerge that make his position less tenable .
At its heart of this story lies the mercurial figure of Mr Cummings , and his mystical power at the apex of Mr Johnson 's powerful government , with its 80-strong mandate and programme for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Does Mr Johnson depend on him too much ?
Does he wield more power than cabinet ministers ?
Can the PM cope without him ?
And separately , the baffling question alongside that seems to be dogging the coronavirus scandal : why do people who dial into meetings of the elite government scientific advisory group SAGE find it so hard to obey the government 's rules which they help set ?

For most of Saturday, Downing Street tried to frame events as one individual's private and difficult decision about what to do with a four-year-old when both parents potentially have coronavirus.
The opposition maintain this is a tale about hypocrisy: a story about one rule for those in the citadel of power and another for the masses.
Framing which is ironic, perhaps, given Dominic Cummings - the senior adviser to Boris Johnson, the man who directed Vote Leave and the person at the centre of this furore - has made a career of chiding the elite about their ignorance of the views of the wider population.
It is no doubt uncomfortable for him to switch sides so abruptly, as demonstrated by a YouGov poll that found 52% saying he should resign as a senior adviser to the PM.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 Cummings 'obviously not' going to resign
On Saturday night, Number 10 changed tack in the face of reports in the Mirror and Observer of a second trip to Durham during the lockdown.
Having defended Mr Cumming's reasonableness, now the goal is to denigrate the messenger and all those that carry the claims of rule breaking.
Even though the nation will have heard Transport Secretary Grant Shapps at the press conference confirm that Mr Cummings did indeed travel 260 miles at the height of the lockdown, now Number 10's line is that Friday night's reports are in some ways inaccurate.
And Number 10 maintain that fresh allegations about a second visit contain some falsehoods, although they will not stoop to point out what they are.
"We will not waste our time answering a stream of false allegations about Mr Cummings from campaigning newspapers," Number 10 said in a statement.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:25 Shapps: Cummings needed 'necessary support'
Mr Cummings's aides have judged they do not want to get tangled up in the detail of timelines, eyewitness accounts and an incriminating number plate, and instead are appealing to their natural allies in politics and the wider public to fight for their team.
In doing so, channelling the very essence of the culture wars.
One wonders about the private reflections of some members of the cabinet like Rishi Sunak or Matt Hancock who tweeted in support of Mr Cummings, before the fresh allegations surfaced.
Or Mr Shapps himself, who told the press conference that Mr Cummings was "staying put, in one place, with his family".
Or about the views of Mr Cummings among those brave cabinet ministers who did not take to Twitter to clear his name: Ben Wallace, the defence secretary, Therese Coffey, the work and pensions secretary, and Simon Hart, the Welsh secretary, to name three conspicuously absent from the loyalty test.
Fewest marks of all go to those cabinet ministers like Priti Patel and Gavin Williamson who chose to retweet the support voiced by others, but not put views in their own words, thereby sitting on the fence ready to come down on either side depending on events.
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Or perhaps they are the swing voters in this drama, who could force Mr Johnson to sack Mr Cummings if new facts emerge that make his position less tenable.
At its heart of this story lies the mercurial figure of Mr Cummings, and his mystical power at the apex of Mr Johnson's powerful government, with its 80-strong mandate and programme for dramatic reform.
Is he unsackable? Does Mr Johnson depend on him too much? Does he wield more power than cabinet ministers? Can the PM cope without him?
And separately, the baffling question alongside that seems to be dogging the coronavirus scandal: why do people who dial into meetings of the elite government scientific advisory group SAGE find it so hard to obey the government's rules which they help set?