Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, commenting on the number of people who have been fined for breaking social distancing rules, said:

“Our frontline police officers deserve great credit for the job they’re doing in very difficult circumstances.

“Across the country, police forces are doing their best to enforce the lockdown by consent and with common sense.

“Publishing these figures is an important aspect of the transparency we need at this difficult time.

“The number of fines seems to be encouragingly low; we should also thank the vast majority of the public who are following guidance and doing their best for themselves, their families and their communities.”