National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales John Apter said: “We are working closely with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), the Home Office, Public Health England and others in relation to Covid-19, and have been since we became aware of the original outbreak in China.

“The NPCC are leading on the policing response and we are in discussion about how the service would adapt if there was widespread disruption to people’s everyday lives.

“Police officers are resilient, adaptable and will always do their best for the public, but it must be remembered that policing is under huge pressure from our day to day demand. I would urge the public to be pragmatic and sensible about their use of the 999-emergency system if the virus does become more prevalent.

“PFEW will continue to work to ensure our members' wellbeing is protected, and they are kept informed, as this situation develops.”

The Government has published its action plan around the outbreak of the Coronavirus. It can be viewed here.