Following the announcement, Mr Johnson was asked if more will be done to close other areas of social gatherings. During the conference, Mr Johnson was asked whether he would increase measures to stop social gatherings at places such as pubs and clubs as “London was not listening” to the advice from the experts. 

The Prime Minister responded by saying the Government will not “hesitate” in putting measures in at the right time. 

Quizzed again if the Government would enforce measures, Mr Johnson said they would consider all options. 

Mr Johnson added: “We don’t intend to place restrictions like that on people in this country. 

“But we will rule nothing out.

“We do not rule out taking further and faster measures where it is necessary to suppress the peak of the virus.”

The questions come as pictures showed the Tube to still be highly used during the morning commute. 

Despite advising members of the public to avoid social gatherings, people have also been seen going to pubs and cafes. 

Mr Johnson comments come as he and Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson announced schools across the country from Friday. 

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With the mortality rate of the virus now rising to 104 today, Mr Johnson said the closure would be for the “foreseeable future”. 

Mr Johnson also announced that summer exams will now not take place. 

He added meals and vouchers would be provided for pupils who currently receive free school meals. 

Both Scotland and Wales also announced school closures by the end of the week. 

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However, in Northern Ireland schools closed from 5pm today although teachers will attend for a further two days. 

Mr Williamson told MPs: “The spike of the virus is increasing at a faster pace than anticipated and it is crucial that we continue to consider the right measures to arrest this increase and to relieve the pressure on the health system.

“The public health benefits of schools remaining open as normal are shifting.

“It is also clear that schools are increasingly finding it more difficult to continue as normal, as illness and self-isolation impacts on staffing levels and pupil attendance.”

Schools supporting workers in critical services such as the NHS will be expected to remain open during the Easter holidays. 

Commenting on the move, Paul Whiteman of the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) said it was a “grave situation”. 

He said: “Today’s decision is a vote of confidence in how schools have responded so far. Schools can be confident they are doing a good job.

“Now, they should also be entitled to expect the necessary support from other organisations with civic responsibilities.

“The situation is moving very quickly, and we have more questions than answers at the moment.

“Whilst NAHT and its school leader members stand ready to assist with this response, there are many complicated issues to address immediately as a result of the government’s announcement today.”

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