AROUND 30 million households will receive letters from the Prime Minister next week, urging the public to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives during the coronavirus pandemic.

Boris Johnson will be writing to every home in the UK to outline Government advice and measures, as well as thanking NHS staff for their work during the outbreak.

It is expected to cost around £5.8million to print and distribute the letters.

In the letter the Prime Minister will say: “We know things will get worse before they get better.

“But we are making the right preparations, and the more we all follow the rules, the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal.

“I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus, in particular the staff in our fantastic NHS and care sector across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors, nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour.

“Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS – and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable.

“That is why, at this moment of national emergency, I urge you, please, to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”

Alongside the writing, residents will receive a leaflet with the Government’s advice, and clear explanations of symptoms, hand washing guidance, rules on leaving the house, self-isolating with symptoms and the protection of vulnerable people.

Mr Johnson is continuing to lead the Government’s response to coronavirus as he self isolates after testing positive for the virus.