POLICE have said they are trained to deal with "difficult and challenging situations" after Boris Johnson announced officers would have the powers to enforce rules to crack down on coronavirus.

On Monday night, the Prime Minister announced that citizens should not leave the house unless essential amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Government said that every citizen is instructed to comply with the new measure and the ensure this, police will now have the powers to enforce them "through fines and dispersing gatherings where people do not comply".

The Hampshire Police Federation has said that although there are no "specific plans" yet, they are prepared to provide a service to communities throughout the coronavirus "crisis".

The Daily Echo contacted Hampshire Constabulary but they did not respond to our request.

A spokesperson from the Hampshire Police Federation said: "We do not yet have any specific plans.

"We will continue to police by consent and reinforce the directions from the Government."

"By communicating with the public the importance of following the new rules until the new powers come into force on Thursday 26th March.

"Police officers are used to dealing with difficult and challenging situations so our members will continue to provide a service to our communities throughout this crisis."

It came after all non-essential shops closed yesterday except for essential businesses such as food stores and pharmacies.

Due to the new restrictions, people will only be allowed to leave their house for; shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible; one form of exercise a day - for example a run, walk, or cycle, alone or with members of their household; any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person; and travelling to and from work, but only where it is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home.

Now, emergency powers to tackle the coronavirus crisis are set to be backed by peers in a bid to "buy time" for the NHS.

Health minister Lord Bethell won cross-party support in the Lords for a wide-ranging package of measures needed to fight the pandemic.