Police warn of a surge in reports over breaches in PM’s total lockdown

As PM Boris Johnson announced tougher restrictions on movements during the coronavirus crisis, police have warned there could be surge in calls over breaches of the lockdown rules.

Meetings of more than two people who don’t live together have been banned, and officers will have powers to disperse gatherings and impose fines.

On Tuesday, Mr Johnson’s official spokesman said the Prime Minister “issued a clear instruction on behalf of the government on the actions the public are required to take to help prevent the spread of the virus, protect the NHS and save lives”.

The government added that “we would expect that compliance to begin immediately”, and to “expect the police’s focus to be dispersal of groups”.

Police chiefs said they are already receiving calls about potential breaches of the rules, and said the public can call 101 with information.