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“Every death from this virus is a tragedy and each of these figures represents another shocking and terrible loss of a family member and friend."

“Across the country, councils and their staff - are on the frontline in the battle against this disease"

“We are pleased that councils will now be able to provide much-needed support to many households on the lowest incomes by quickly reducing or removing the need for them to pay council tax."

Responding to the announcement by government that councils have been asked to support rough sleepers and other vulnerable homeless into accommodation by the end of the week, Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, said: “Councils have been working hard to identify rough sleepers and homeless people, get them off the streets and into suitable accommodation and help protect them from the coronavirus. “This will be a huge task given the shortage of accommodation available with many councils now affected by the recent closures of hotels and the difficulties some have

"These measures will help councils with their cash-flow as they grapple with extra costs, lost income, and demand pressures as a result of the pandemic."

“Councils are keen to open household waste and recycling centres as soon as practicable."

“We are pleased that the Government has listened to our call to extend the food voucher scheme to cover the Easter holidays."

“This extra funding for infection control in care homes is good news and will help councils’ public health teams in their efforts to reduce and prevent coronavirus outbreaks."

“Councils want to continue playing a leading role in supporting local communities and the national effort to defeat this disease."

“Councils have a unique understanding of their communities and are ideally placed with the skills, knowledge and experience on the ground to help ramp up the level of testing and contact tracing necessary to defeat this disease."