PEOPLE who are ignoring social distancing advice to stay two metres apart are "very selfish", the Health Secretary has said as he indicated further measures could be brought in to tackle Covid-19.

In a sign that the UK could be moving towards greater lockdown, Matt Hancock said the Government was willing to take "more action" if needed to stop coronavirus from spreading.

Over the weekend, photos emerged showing crowds of people visiting open spaces across many parts of the UK.

The Government has said it is safe to exercise as long as people keep at least two metres away from other people.

But Labour urged ministers to act now by moving to "enforced social distancing".

Speaking on BBC Radio 4, Mr Hancock said he did not know why some people were ignoring the Government's advice.

"It's very selfish," he said. "The NHS is doing everything it can and preparing for the spread of this virus.

"If people go within two metres of others who they don't live with then they're helping to spread the virus - and the consequences of that costs lives and it means that, for everyone, this will go on for longer."

Mr Hancock said ministers were prepared to take stricter measures to clamp down on the spread of the virus if necessary.

Asked by the BBC whether he would move to telling people not to go out at all rather than simply advise against it, he said: "Yes, and on Saturday I signed the order to give the police the power to be able to shut bars, restaurants and pubs if they are still open.

"This isn't the sort of thing I ever wanted to do but it is the sort of thing as a nation we have to be prepared to see to stop this virus.

"These are unpleasant and very difficult times."

Asked whether the Cabinet would be considering a firmer lockdown when it meets on Monday, Mr Hancock said: "Nothing is off the table. Of course we are looking at what other European countries are doing."

Downing Street said ministers will be looking at data on how much social interaction is still taking place and "if that information shows they haven't stopped then we will need to take further measures".

Asked whether extra controls could be imposed as soon as Monday, the spokesman said: "We won't hesitate to take any further measures if they are required."