THAMES Valley Police have confirmed that they have been given new powers to enforce social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic.

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The force announced on its social media pages today (March 28) that police can now use new legislation and enforce penalties.

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A tweet reads: "We have been given new powers to help enforce the government directive for people to stay indoors to halt the spread of coronavirus.

"This means that where an individual is outside without reasonable excuse, the police can:

".Use new legislation to safeguard the public and reduce transmission of the virus

".Enforce fixed penalty notices #StayHomeSaveLives #COVID19".