Queen issues statement as Boris Johnson moved into intensive care battling coronavirus
THE Queen is being updated by Boris Johnson's team on any changes to his condition, Buckingham Palace has confirmed, after the Prime Minister was admitted to intensive care.
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Mr Johnson, who tested positive for coronavirus 10 days ago, was moved to the ICU at St Thomas’ Hospital at 7pm last night on the advice of his medical team. He was admitted to hospital last night for "precautionary" tests. Downing Street is keeping the Queen in the loop by passing important messages to her as she isolates at Windsor Castle. Daily Express royal correspondent Richard Palmer tweeted: “Buckingham Palace says Downing Street has been keeping the Queen informed about the Prime Minister’s condition.”
Mr Palmer said the Queen would be likely "be praying for her Prime Minister" during this difficult time.
The monarch, 93, is cocooning in Windsor with the Duke of Edinburgh.
Last night she addressed the nation about the ongoing crisis, encouraging Britons to play their part in trying to stop the crisis by staying home.
Mr Johnson has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to deputise “where necessary”, a Downing Street spokesman said.
Number 10 issued a statement saying: “Since Sunday evening, the Prime Minister has been under the care of doctors at St Thomas’ Hospital, in London, after being admitted with persistent symptoms of coronavirus.
“Over the course of this afternoon, the condition of the Prime Minister has worsened and, on the advice of his medical team, he has been moved to the Intensive Care Unit at the hospital.
“The PM has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is the First Secretary of State, to deputise for him where necessary.
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“The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication.”
After the Government imposed a strict lockdown across the UK the Queen and Mr Johnson held their weekly meeting over the phone.
The palace released a rare photo of the Queen chatting to the Prime Minister on an old-fashioned handset.
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The announcement that Mr Johnson has been transferred to the ICU prompted an outpouring of prayers and good wishes from world leaders.
French President Emmanuel Macron said: "All my support for Boris Johnson, his family and the British people at this difficult time. I wish him to overcome this ordeal quickly."
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said: “Sending my best wishes to Prime Minister Boris Johnson for a full and speedy recovery.
“My thoughts are with you and your family right now.
“Hope to see you back at Number 10 soon."
Michel Barnier, whom also has been diagnosed with COVID-19, sent wishes for a fast recovery.
The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator said: "Wishing Boris Johnson all the best and a speedy recovery.My thoughts are with you and your family."
Labour’s new leader Keir Starmer also responded to the news that the country’s leader’s health had worsened.
Mr Starmer said Britons' thoughts would be with the Prime Minister and his family "during this incredibly difficult time".