“I suspect many folks, when they see this, will be adding Britannia Hotels to the list of businesses they will not be frequenting when this crisis is over", Andrew Neil said.

Most leaders know that delivering serious, emotionally loaded and important messages is simply part of the job. And the fact is, during times of crisis – like now - it’s vital for us to deliver those messages carefully, compassionately, with empathy and, if possible, in person.

He suggested the Universal Credit scheme, his main legacy at the DWP, would be a better alternative.

Italy, with a population of 60 million, has recorded at least 3,405 deaths.

The PM said people need to keep their distance and stay home if ill.

Glasgow City Mission’s winter night shelter is usually open between December and March and can accommodate up to 40 people.

"This is a national emergency and we need to pool our nation’s expertise to fight the spread.”

It also increased its so-called quantitative easing programme by £200 billion to £645 billion.

You can’t fudge a pandemic when thousands of people have died.