Businesses which have obeyed instructions to close amid the coronavirus outbreak have been praised by police.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered pubs, restaurants and other meeting places to close last night (March 20).

Now Scotland's top police officer has issued a statement on the country's reaction.

Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said: "I would like to thank the overwhelming majority of people who are already complying for their assistance and co-operation."

Mr Livingstone said we are living through "difficult days" and urged everybody to get behind the national effort.

He said he "fully supports" the decision to close meeting places.

He added: "The response to coronavirus has been fast moving and I would urge everyone to do what they can to comply with the advice from government and the health service to keep people safe.

"You should also stay informed about developments and reflect on the implications of them on how you go about your lives during these difficult days.

"To be clear, no public houses or other entertainment venues should be opening for patrons until further notice."