Bromsgrove MP and Tory former chancellor Sajid Javid said he does not believe Dominic Cummings’ trip to County Durham was “necessary or justified”.

In a letter to constituents Mr Javid wrote: “Mr Cummings has argued he acted within the letter of the law.

“As a father myself, I also appreciate the fear and uncertainty one can feel when the safety of your child is potentially at stake.

“That being said I do not believe Mr Cummings’ journey to County Durham to isolate on his family’s estate was necessary or justified. I remain unconvinced his visit to Barnard Castle could be considered reasonable.

“I was also deeply concerned by his decision to return to Downing Street directly after coming into contact with a family member who was ill, potentially with coronavirus.”

Mr Javid, who quit as chancellor earlier this year following an escalation in tensions with Mr Cummings, has called for the aide to apologise for the choices he made over where to observe lockdown.