Rutland MP Alicia Kearns quizzed prime minister Boris Johnson yesterday about a need for higher fines for people 'flouting' the lockdown regulations.

The MP says constituents have contacted her asking for greater deterrents to be put in place to stop people breaking lockdown guidance and to better support the police in doing their duties.

Mrs Kearns told the House: "Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking everyone who has saved lives by following Government guidance over the past seven weeks?

"However, constituents in Rutland and Melton have written to me about the few persistent offenders who continue to flout the rules.

"Will my right hon. Friend confirm how great the increase in the fines will be, and that this will act as a greater deterrent and serve to make clear that the danger from the virus has not yet passed?"

Prime Minister Boris Johnson replied: "I can confirm that the starting point of the fines will be £100, which will be lowered to £50 if paid within 14 days, but it will go up and up and up, as I said earlier, to £3,600.

"We do not want to impose these fines—nobody wants to impose these fines. We do not want to add to the burdens on our wonderful police force. That is why I hope—and I know—that the British people will exercise their common sense."