The lack of notice may go some way to explaining the irate reaction of the mayor of Middlesbrough to the imposition of new restrictions.

“I see the disinfectant, where it knocks it out in a minute, one minute. Is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside, or almost a cleaning?"

Donald Trump will have to self-isolate as the campaign enters the home straight. It could be the final nail in his re-election hopes.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that Britain had already breached the “obligation of good faith” of the agreement, adding that Brussels will be sending a formal “letter of notice” allowing the bloc to launch legal action against the UK.

When Britain formally cuts ties with Brussels on 31 December, London will lose its passport to offer services across the EU, having to rely on the bloc granting the UK ‘equivalence’ to do business in the region.

Of those who thought it was a threat, half said that Islam “breeds intolerance”. Just 31 per cent of members felt that anti-Muslim discrimination is a serious problem in the UK.

“The way in which the Government has exercised its power to make secondary legislation during this crisis has been totally unsatisfactory,” Sir Lindsay said.

“The Conservatives call themselves the party of law and order, but have become the party of lawlessness and disorder," David Lammy said.

Asked whether he would denounce white supremacists, Trump demurred before saying: “Proud Boys - stand back and stand by.”