This archive report was first published on 25 May 2020.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing intense scrutiny over his senior aide Dominic Cummings' alleged breach of coronavirus lockdown rules, as the government prepares to unveil plans to ease restrictions.
According to reports, Cummings traveled from London to Durham in late March, sparking allegations that he broke the rules by leaving his home during the lockdown.
Johnson has defended his aide, stating that he had 'no alternative' but to make the journey for childcare reasons, as both he and his wife were about to be incapacitated by coronavirus.
However, critics, including scientists and Church of England bishops, have accused Johnson of undermining the government's message and called for Cummings to resign.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has also weighed in, stating that he would have sacked Cummings if he were prime minister, and that Johnson's failure to take action was 'an insult to sacrifices made by the British people.'
As the controversy surrounding Cummings continues to unfold, the government is set to unveil plans to ease lockdown restrictions, including the phased reopening of England's primary schools and the reopening of some non-essential shops in June.
