UK’s Boris Johnson starts return to work as virus criticism grows

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tentatively began his return to work today after being hospitalized for coronavirus, as parliament returned and criticism grew over the government’s response to the outbreak.

Johnson spoke on the phone to US President Donald Trump about the international response to COVID-19, and officials say he will speak to Queen Elizabeth II in the coming days for the first time in three weeks.

However, his spokesman says the 55-year-old, who spent several days in intensive care, is not yet “formally doing government work” as he recuperates at his official countryside retreat of Chequers.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab remains in temporary charge and will take prime minister’s questions on Wednesday during a semi-virtual session of the House of Commons.

— AFP