Congleton's MP cannot "condone" the actions of Dominic Cummings and has stated her constituents are entitled to feel "badly let down" by someone in leadership with an obligation to be an exemplar.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson stood by his chief advisor after moving to his parents' farm in Durham from London while he and his wife were suffering from coronavirus symptoms.

Mr Cummings said he had "exceptional circumstances" to travel 260 miles north to ensure his four-year-old child had suitable childcare should they both fall ill.

The former Vote Leave boss also admitted for the first time yesterday (Monday) he made a trip to a beauty spot in the town of Barnard Castle, a 30-minute drive away, saying he wanted to check he was well enough to drive back to London after his eyesight had been affected by the virus.

Congleton's MP, Fiona Bruce told Nub News: "I have not commented on Dominic Cummings' situation until now as I thought it fair to await the full facts and reflect.

"Having now done so my initial reaction remains - I cannot condone what he did, nor accept that his interpretation of the guidelines was reasonable."

In an unprecedented news conference yesterday held in the Downing Street rose garden, Mr Cummings said he would not apologise, had no regrets and insisted he had not considered resigning.

Mrs Bruce added: "My constituents have gone to great lengths to stay at home during this crisis. Many have endured enormous strain, and in some cases, real suffering.

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"They are entitled to feel badly let down by someone in leadership with an obligation to be an exemplar.

"I am ensuring that this and the strength of feeling in my mailbox, have been communicated to the highest level of Government."

Douglas Ross stepped down as a junior Scotland Office minister in a letter to Mr Johnson published this morning (Tuesday).