The widespread introduction of COVID marshals to towns and cities in England to enforce social distancing rules is "unlikely" and "almost impossible", according to some councils, which have highlighted a lack of detail in last week’s Government’s announcement, including questions about funding, recruitment and enforcement powers.

The LGA said: “Even if marshals were rolled out in great numbers, they will not have enforcement powers so it is important that residents do not expect councils to be able to act when they cannot" and "any new responsibilities for councils in this area will have to be fully funded".