‘Covid marshals’ could be used in north-west London to offer “advice and guidance” around social distancing, though they will not have any enforcement powers.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that volunteers would be deployed in town and city centres to help manage any additional safety measures.

This increased visibility would be part of his plan to ensure “stronger enforcement of the rules” following an increase of Covid-19 cases in England.

A spokesman for Harrow Council explained a similar system has already been in place in the borough and that it would continue to review it depending on circumstances.

He added any paid staff, should it choose to take this route, would have to be covered by the council’s budget.

“Covid marshals, as proposed by the Government, are volunteers,” he said.

“The Government has made it very clear they will not provide any funding around this, so any additional support staff the council use will have to be funded by the council.

“The Government has made it clear that the marshals will have no powers, but be volunteers in high visibility clothing, offering advice and guidance and feeding back issues.

“As it stands, enforcement in the main remains with the police.”

In neighbouring Brent, the council said it was also considering implementing marshals but would have more information next week.