Monmouth’s MP David Davies has had many worried constituents get in touch about the spread of Covid-19 and its impact.

He said: "Scientists believe that up to 80 per cent of the population will contract coronavirus. For most people this will be uncomfortable for a few days but not dangerous. However, a small percentage of the population - mainly the elderly - will be at much greater risk and may need hospital treatment. If large numbers all require hospital treatment at the same time, then it will be very difficult for the NHS to cope. The strategy therefore being pursued, on the advice of experts, is to ensure that as the spread of the virus speeds up, measures are put in place to slow it down."

Mr Davies said that the emergency measures being suggested, such as closing schools, cancelling major events and social distancing, will only have the effect of a temporary slowdown and will not reduce the overall numbers who fall ill. The purpose of the measures is to reduce the numbers going into hospital at the same time.