Coronavirus lockdown laws: What types of ‘essential food’ can I buy and is driving allowed?

More than 100 fines have already been issued in four days - with some forces accused of being overzealous in their approach to policing the regulations.

The Government guidance generally urges the public to avoid unnecessary trips out of doors where possible in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19.

But there has been confusion over what can be enforced by police and what actually constitutes breaking the law.

This has prompted concerns from human rights campaigners and claims the laws are open to interpretation.

- When did the laws come into force?

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations 2020 were introduced in England on Thursday at 1pm.

Similar versions of the laws were enacted in Wales at 4pm and in Scotland at 7.15pm on the same day, as well as at 11pm on Saturday in Northern Ireland.

- Why have the rules been enacted?

The England regulations state they are made "in response to the serious and imminent threat to public health" posed by Covid-19.

- Can I leave my house?

According to the legislation: "During the emergency period, no person may leave the place where they are living without reasonable excuse."

A reasonable excuse includes: getting food and medical supplies for yourself, members of the same household and vulnerable people, getting money, to exercise and for essential work.

You can also leave your house to: give blood, attend a funeral (in some cases), meet bail conditions, go to court and take part in legal proceedings, move house and to "avoid injury or illness or to escape a risk of harm".