The footage, which appears to have been taken in London, has been shared on social media. It shows a young man apparently approaching Mr Whitty in public, who goes on to accuse him of lying about coronavirus cases.
Addressing Mr Whitty, the man says: “You lie about the Covid-19 cases, man. Stop lying to the TV.”
He then seems to repeatedly call Mr Whitty, who does not respond at all throughout the video, a “liar” whilst recording him.
The footage does not seem to be dated. According to the Daily Mail, it was uploaded yesterday on “several” social media channels by a user called ‘AA Bants’.
The Guardian claims the footage was taken at Westminster’s Strutton Ground market, where Mr Whitty appeared to be queuing at a stall.
It has also been uploaded to Twitter by Conservative MP Matt Vickers, who branded the footage “appalling”.
Mr Vickers said on Twitter: “Chris Whitty is doing all he can to help guide us through the crisis and should never be subjected to this abuse.”
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However, reports have emerged in recent days of Covid-deniers entering hospitals in an apparent effort to downplay the virus’ seriousness.
Last week, Surrey Police launched an appeal for help in identifying a group who entered a coronavirus ward in East Surrey Hospital and began verbally abusing staff.
Footage shared online shows a group of people arguing with hospital workers, with one claiming there is no proof Covid-19 exists.
Surrey Police subsequently announced a man had been arrested on January 28 “on suspicion of causing a public nuisance”.
He was released on bail in the early hours of January 30 until February 22.
There have also been various protests against lockdown restrictions, including one which took place near the London Eye on New Year’s Eve.
Michael Wilson, chief executive of Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “Any suggestion that Covid-19 doesn’t exist or isn’t serious is not only extremely disrespectful to the NHS staff caring for patients affected by the virus, but it also puts the lives of others at risk.”
