A universal basic income should be seriously considered in light of the financial turmoil caused by the coronavirus outbreak, an MP has said.

Labour MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, Catherine West, said the Government needs to do far more to protect the income of the most vulnerable.

The Government implemented various measures last week to stop the spread of coronavirus, including the shutting of schools, pubs, clubs, gyms and encouraging people who are most at risk to self-isolate for 12-weeks.

She said: "Carers need to have more advice on how to look after the people they care for and have proper protective equipment to prevent the spread of elderly people.

"A universal basic income is something which should be seriously considered.

"I'm worried about the NHS and social care, which have been depleted and run down since the global financial crash and is not in the best position to combat the virus.

"But I know our NHS staff are doing a magnificent job under immense stress and deserve our praise."

Mrs West said she understood people's concern when it came to panic buying and believes stockpiling is "unnecessary".

So far, various supermarkets have implemented rationing in their stores and others such as Sainsbury's have special shopping hours for the elderly and vulnerable.

She added: "There are repeated and clear assurances that the food supply is robust and can handle increased demand.

"Panic buying prevents low-paid and vulnerable people buying the goods they need and I strongly urge people to only buy what they need."

Mrs West said she is taking her own precautions and is only attending Parliament if "absolutely necessary".

She added: "MPs are being asked not to crowd in the chamber in the House of Commons due to the virus' infectious nature.

"But I will be in Parliament this week to scrutinise the proposed emergency legislation to ensure it is time limited and does not unduly extend the powers of the government more than needed.

"MPs have also taken steps to reduce face-to-face contact and are doing their advice services to constituents in a different way, such as by email or phone."