First, I do understand why so many people are angry at his actions. The perception is that it’s one rule for him and another for them. There’s the point, too, that people were specifically instructed to stay at home unless for exceptional circumstances. The long drive and trip to Barnard Castle only add to the frustration and anger of many.

The lock-down has affected countless people, in particular causing distress to those wishing to support family and friends at a difficult time and not being able to. This is the point made in the majority of emails that I’ve received, though a few are supportive of Mr Cummings. I have made both views very clear to the Government, as is my job.

There’s a legal question, too. Did Mr Cummings break the law? In my view, he did not. And I refer you to a statement made by Jenny Harries, the deputy chief medical officer, on 24 March, upon which my opinion is based.

She was specifically asked if a vulnerable person could be the child of parents with COVID-19.

She replied: "A small child clearly is a vulnerable individual, so in this case, although we are encouraging everybody to stay in their households - that's the unit with the same exposure - clearly if you have adults who are unable to look after a small child that is an exceptional circumstance."

The day before, the Prime Minister had given four reasons for leaving home. They were for:

    (a) any medical need, including to donate blood

    (b) avoiding injury or illness

    (c) escaping risk of harm

    (d) providing care or help to a vulnerable person

This row has not been helped by some inaccurate reporting of the facts, which has fuelled people’s anger.

However, I am very concerned at the orchestrated campaign against Mr Cummings and his family and find the behaviour of some of the public, press and politicians distasteful. Worse, the family’s very safety is at question. And, as we find increasingly in the world of politics, social media isn’t helping, either.

I do not know Mr Cummings, have never met him, nor did I employ him. Any decision regarding his future is the Prime Minister’s.

In all this, I ask myself what I would do in similar circumstances. The answer is that I’d do whatever it took to ensure the wellbeing and safety of my family. The answer is subjective, with each one of us acting as we deem appropriate. 

Meanwhile, it is vital that we all concentrate on the top priority, which is to get the country back to work as safely and as quickly as possible. I have seen many businesses in South Dorset, and across the country, struggling to survive due to this lockdown. And with recovery now a very real likelihood, it’s time to move on.