A GOVERNMENT scientist who breached his own coronavirus social distancing advice by letting a woman into his home has had to step down.

Professor Neil Ferguson had publicly emphasised the need to maintain “significant levels of social distancing — probably indefinitely until we have a vaccine available.”

Today it was revealed that he has stepped down from the government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) after he was reported to have let the woman, who lives with her husband and children, into his home.

Mr Ferguson said he acted in the belief that he was “immune” from Covid-19 as he had tested positive for it, and that he had isolated himself “for almost two weeks after developing symptoms.” He admitted that he made an “error of judgement.”

A statement from Scotland Yard said no further action would be taken after Mr Ferguson acknowledged that his “behaviour is plainly disappointing.”

A month ago, Police Scotland gave a warning to Scottish chief medical officer Dr Catherine Calderwood after she visited her second home in Fife twice despite advising people to stay at home. She also resigned from her job.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that it was right that Mr Ferguson resigned for breaking social distancing rules and that he supports Scotland Yard’s decision to take no further action.

His spokesman said: “We all have a role to play in the fight against the virus. That means taking responsibility and following the official advice.

“Scotland Yard has made its decision and we respect that decision.”