Michael Gove self-isolates after meeting Covid-positive Australian deputy PM

Michael Gove has gone into self-isolation, his spokesman has confirmed on Thursday.

The Communities Secretary has been self-isolating after he coming into contact with Australian Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce who has tested positive for coronavirus.

It is thought Mr Gove does not have any symptoms of Covid but he is taking precautions while waiting for the results of a test.

He is the third minister to come into contact with the Australian Deputy Prime Minister this week.

Justice Secretary Dominic Raab and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps have also gone into self-isolation following the news.

Mr Joyce was in the UK earlier this week.

The Australian politician, who is fully vaccinated, tested positive while travelling to Washington DC and he is self-isolating for 10 days.

Mr Shapps was forced to pull out of an HS2-related visit to Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

Mr Shapps tweeted: “Sorry not to be travelling to @HitachiRailENG in County Durham today to welcome huge new @HS2ltd rolling stock contract.

“Have taken precaution of cancelling visit & have taken PCR test after being in contact with Australian Deputy PM this week – who’s tested positive for Covid.”

A spokeswoman for Mr Raab said: “He is getting tested and he is self-isolating while we wait to hear whether the Australian Deputy Prime Minister has Omicron or not.”