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“It is up to individuals and businesses to make sure they act responsibly and safely, including maintaining social distancing. Councils will be working with police, businesses and other partners to ensure existing and new requirements are complied with."

“The further £500 million extra funding to help councils meet extra COVID-19 costs pressures is helpful but, in the context of the funding gap councils still face, substantial additional funding will be needed and we await further details on how this money will be distributed."

"Councils want all children to return to school to continue with their education and we also want to work with the Government, education leaders and schools to make sure the national effort is a success."

The Local Government Association is calling for the Government to urgently bring forward details of its comprehensive plan to ensure the financial sustainability of councils this year and next.

"Worryingly the number of people dying at home is still higher than the five-year average, which could suggest that some are choosing not to go to hospital or receive help elsewhere."

"Planning powers must also remain at a local level, to enable councils to deliver resilient, prosperous places that meet the needs of their communities."

Responding to figures from Shelter showing around 84,000 fewer homes could be delivered in England this year due to the impact of coronavirus, Cllr David Renard, LGA housing spokesman, said: “Housing must be a central part of the national recovery from coronavirus. Now is the time for a genuine renaissance in council house-building that reduces homelessness, gets rough sleepers off the streets for good, supports people’s wellbeing and is climate-friendly. “Giving councils the powers and tools to deliver a programme of 100,000 social homes a year would not only meet a third of the

"These truly shocking statistics are another tragic reminder about the essential need for our vital social care workforce to be fully protected and equipped to look after themselves, as well as all the people of all ages they are supporting, and helping to keep safe and well."

“It would be a tragedy if our collective efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 are undone in a way that leads to a resurgence of this deadly virus that puts further lives at risk.”

“Having enough childcare places will be essential to support families and get the economy moving again, while supporting children’s development and getting them ready for school."