Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s tightened restrictions on social distancing, and the advice for the over-70s to self-isolate until further notice, meant the continuation of the inquiry became impossible.

Chairman Martin Moore-Bick said he is now looking at the possibility of holding virtual hearings. He also pointed out that he and inquiry barrister Michael Mansfield QC would fall foul of the restriction on over-70s.

He said: “In the light of the Prime Minister’s statement this afternoon the Panel has decided that the Inquiry should hold no further hearings for the time being. To do so, even on the basis of limited attendance, would be to expose those whose presence is essential for that purpose, not to mention those whom we wish to call as witnesses, to an unacceptable risk of infection. It would also send the wrong signal to the world at large at a time when everyone is being urged to co-operate with measures designed to minimise the effect of the virus.

“We very much regret that it has been necessary to take this step and we shall be giving careful consideration to whether it is possible to resume hearings using electronic means, but even if that is not possible the work of the Inquiry will continue. We shall keep you informed of developments as they occur and I hope that it will not be long before we can continue taking evidence.”