THE Prime Minister’s senior adviser Dominic Cummings has spoken publicly to defend his 250-mile trip to his parents’ house while sick with Covid-19 during lockdown.

There are calls for the adviser to resign or be sacked over the journey, which took place at the end of March and was revealed by Guardian and Mirror journalists last night.

However Downing Street has insisted the journey was “essential” and in line with coronavirus guidelines.

READ MORE: Dominic Cummings: Number 10 defends adviser's 'essential' journey

Under legislation at the time in England only essential travel was allowed; while people displaying coronavirus symptoms have long been told they must self-isolate for seven days.

Asked by reporters this afternoon whether making the trip from London to County Durham “looked good”, Cummings said: “Who cares about good looks? It’s a question of doing the right thing.

“It’s not about what you guys think.”

Opposition MPs including SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford have accused the UK Government of a “cover-up” after it emerged Cummings made the trip with his wife and son just days after the UK-wide lockdown came into force.

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Downing Street has said: "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 this matter, as is being reported. His actions were in line with coronavirus guidelines. Mr Cummings believes he behaved reasonably and legally."