Coronavirus: Boris Johnson apologises for 'misspeaking' at press conference and getting government guidance wrong

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has apologised on Twitter, claiming he “misspoke” during his press conference earlier.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Earlier today, the Prime Minister gave a detailed answer response about the new lockdown rules in the North East of England which were announced yesterday and are due to come into effect from midnight.

However, his response didn’t support the guidance issued by his own government and he was forced to clarify the accurate rules on twitter shortly afterwards.

Mr Johnson said in the conference: “In the North East and other areas where extra-tight measures have been brought in, you should follow the guidance of local authorities but it is six in a home, six in hospitality but as I understand it, not six outside.”

The new rules actually state that there is a ban on households mixing in private and social settings, both indoors and outdoors in the North East.

A spokesperson for the Prime Minister has claimed that despite the measures being announced yesterday, they are still being finalised today which accounts for Mr Johnson's confusion.

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner condemned the Prime Minister, claiming Mr Johnson did not understand the new regulations saying: “For the Prime Minister to not understand his own rules is grossly incompetent.

“These new restrictions are due to come into force across huge parts of the country tonight.

“The Government needs to get a grip.”

In his apology tweet, Mr Johnson said: “Apologies, I misspoke today. In the North East, new rules mean you cannot meet people from different households in social settings indoors, including in pubs, restaurants and your home. You should also avoid socialising with other households outside.”

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