The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is encouraging food, drink and environmental services industries to test their staff for coronavirus by registering for free testing kits provided by the Government in a letter to “businesses keeping the nation safe and fed”.

The programme of free tests is open to all employers of over 50 staff and will run until 30 June, but businesses must register by 31 March, according to the letter.

Businesses can sign up here or email officials at Covid-19.WorkforceTesting@defra.gov.uk with any queries.