GREATER Manchester Police (GMP) have adopted a four-point national plan in enforcing the law during the lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Last week the Government introduced strict measures which orders people that they can only leave their homes for a few reasons.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said residents can only leave their properties to shop for basic necessities “as infrequently as possible” and to perform one form of exercise a day.

People can also leave their home to receive medical help, provide care to a vulnerable person or travel to work if “absolutely necessary”.

Businesses selling non-essential businesses were ordered to close as well.

Power to ensure the rules were being adhered to were handed over to the police.

If the measures are not followed then officers may hand out fines of £30, which could be increased if they are not paid and lead to people being tarnished with criminal records.

And GMP have been patrolling the region to check the rules are being following by using a four-step escalation policy: The first principle is to "engage" with people or businesses. The guidelines state: "All officers sighting any breaches or deployed by the operational communications room should engage with the premises/person verbally.

"They should ask whether they have heard about the new restrictions and how quickly they can comply with it."

The second step in the escalation process is "explain".

"Officers are to explain the rules and outline the Government stance, and explain the lockdown is to prevent the spread of the virus and reduce pressure on the NHS," the guidelines state.

"Encourage" is the next approach that GMP officers would take.

The instructions state that "officers should encourage people and premises to consider their own and others welfare and return home/ close premises, and practice physical and social distancing".

And the final stage is "enforcement" when fines may be handed out to people for breaking the law or action may be taken against businesses.

The National Police Chiefs' Council guidelines state: "Where existing legislation is in place, is applicable and appropriate, then this should be considered.

"For example, where licensed premises are concerned – work in partnership with the local authority to close the premises."