TWO-WEEK quarantines will be imposed on new arrivals to Britain from June 8, Home Secretary Priti Patel announced today.

Speaking at the daily Downing Street press briefing, she said that self-isolation would apply to visitors and returning British citizens.

Ms Patel said the measures would “keep the transmission rate down and prevent a devastating second wave” of the coronavirus.

Exemptions apply for people coming from Ireland, medics tackling Covid-19, road-haulage and freight workers, and seasonal agricultural workers.

Passengers would have to fill in a form providing their contact and travel information so they can be traced if infections arise and can be contacted regularly during the 14-day period.

Breaches would be punishable with a £1,000 fixed-penalty notice in England, or prosecution with an unlimited fine, while devolved nations can set out their own enforcement protocols.

Border Force will be able to refuse entry to visitors, and the Home Office added that deportations could be used as a last resort.

Air, sea and rail passengers will be advised to use personal transport to head to their accommodation and not go outdoors for 14 days.

If their accommodation does not meet necessary requirements they will have to self-isolate in hotels arranged by the government.

Visitors will not be allowed, unless they are delivering food and other essential items or providing essential services.