Boris Johnson said that retailers such as fashion and electricals chains, who do not sell essential products such as food and medicines, must close as the UK enters lockdown.

Businesses that will not be forced to close include grocery shops and market stalls, pharmacies, petrol stations, homeware stores, bicycle shops, pet shops, Post Office branches and restaurants and cafes, which can continue to operate takeaway services.

But any shopping trips should be made as infrequently as possible, Johnson said, as he urged people to use online alternatives where they can.