Labour demands urgent inquiry into Dominic Cummings' cross-country trip during lockdown

Labour have called for an urgent inquiry after the prime minister’s chief adviser apparently flouted lockdown rules.

Labour has written to the head of the civil service, Sir Mark Sedwill, to ask him to investigate a 260-mile trip taken by Dominic Cummings.

Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves said: "The British people have made important and painful sacrifices to support the national effort, including being away from family in times of need.

"It is therefore vital that the Government can reassure the public that its most senior figures have been adhering to the same rules as everyone else."

Labour said that No 10's explanations of Mr Cummings's behaviour had "raised more questions than they answer", including when the prime minister was made aware of his aide’s decision to travel from London to Durham during lockdown.

The letter adds: "The British people do not expect there to be one rule for them and another rule for the Prime Minister's most senior adviser."

The SNP have also written to Sir Mark to call for an investigation into the matter.