Prime Minister's press secretary Allegra Stratton is self-isolating after suspected coronavirus contact
The Prime Minister's press secretary is self-isolating after suspected coronavirus contact.
Sources say Allegra Stratton, who has been in the role as Downing Street spokesperson since November, is quarantining - just days after it emerged Matt Hancock is also isolating.
No10 appointed Ms Stratton, who has worked as a journalist and broadcaster, last year to host its new White House-style daily televised press briefings, though these have not emerged since she started work two months ago.
Ms Stratton was previously Chancellor Rishi Sunak's top adviser having only joined the Government last year.
The Prime Minister's press secretary is self-isolating after suspected coronavirus contact
In her most recent intervention earlier this week, she was forced to dismiss 'untrue' reports that the Prime Minister enjoys a 'kip for half an hour or so' during a tough day of running the country.
There is 'no gap' in his daily schedule for a short sleep, she said.
Speaking about the delay in setting up her briefings, Ms Stratton told reporters this month: 'We are looking closely at the best communication for the period we now find ourselves in.
'We have a new strain of coronavirus that's 50% more infectious; the prime minister's taken the steps he's taken in the last few days, and we are considering the best way to support this and to get across public health messaging.'
It comes after Health Secretary Mr Hancock announced earlier this week he was having to stay at home after being 'pinged' by the NHS app - days after he was spotted out twice in busy London parks.
Mr Hancock said he will be isolating until Sunday after receiving the notification. He had Covid last year, but even those who have been infected before must isolate.
He tweeted: 'Last night I was alerted by the @NHSCovid19app to self isolate so I'll be staying at home & not leaving at all until Sunday. We all have a part to play in getting this virus under control.'