Boris Johnson, who is self-isolating in Downing Street after testing positive for coronavirus on Thursday evening, has received many get well messages, including one from Narendra Modi.

But Boris has received a mauling from numerous critics who have accused him of endangering the health of the chancellor Rishi Sunak and other cabinet colleagues by not following the advice he has repeatedly given to the nation —that is, maintaining the minimum 2-metre social distancing rule.

Although he felt unwell on Thursday during the day, he did not take Sunak into confidence until a test that evening confirmed his worst suspicions — he was positive.

Before that, he and Sunak has come out together from 10 Downing Street to participate in the “clap for carers” moment at 8pm to thank NHS staff.

Those who accuse Boris of behaving in an irresponsible manner include Professor Susan Michie, director of the Centre for Behaviour Change at University College London, who pointed out: “Whilst the PM was telling people to stay at home and keep at least two metres apart from each other, the House of Commons was open for business and face-to-face parliamentary activities were carrying on.”