People who are outside during the coronavirus lockdown will be questioned by police and those not wearing masks when required will be fined.
Writing in the Telegraph, Martin Hewitt, the Chair of the National Police Chief's Council, also argued it was right for police to patrol in potential hotspots where gatherings could take place.
Telegraph readers had their say on the police's hardline approach to enforcing the latest lockdown. Read on for their view on the new instructions for police officers, and share your view in the comments section below.
‘It’s just daft now’
@kathleen o'hara
“So I’m out at the supermarket or for a walk and the police plan to stop me to enquire my reason for being out? It's just daft now.”