The Health Secretary has warned the government is ready to ‘take further measures’ if shoppers continue to stockpile food irresponsibly.

Matt Hancock said he was ‘confident’ shops will not run out of food but could not guarantee it and warned the ministers could take action.

When asked if food supply might be at risk, Mr Hancock told Sky: ‘No, one of the things we are confident about is that the food supply will continue.’

He was then pressed to guarantee this would not be the case, and he said: ‘Well we are confident about it. What I can guarantee is we will work with the supermarkets to ensure that people get enough.

‘I understand why people might be stocking up but people have got to behave responsibly.

‘Supermarkets are right to write the letter calling on people to be responsible and to consider the impact their stocking up might have on others. ‘And of course we stand ready to take further measures if that’s necessary.’

Supermarkets and stores sent a joint letter to consumers urging everyone to work together to ensure there is enough food for the country.

Shoppers have been panic-buying essentials, including toilet paper, as fears intensify over the spread of Covid-19.

Retailers are currently working ‘round the clock’ to help customers get the items they need, the British Retail Consortium said. The letter aims to reassure customers, while calling on them to support each other during the crisis.

It said: ‘We know that many of you are worried about the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19). We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need.’

The letter added: ‘But we need your help too. We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop. ‘We understand your concerns, but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without. ‘There is enough for everyone if we all work together.

‘Together we can make sure we are looking out for family, friends, neighbours.

‘Together we will care for those around us and those who are elderly, vulnerable or choosing to remain at home.’

Firms are working closely with the Government and suppliers, and have arranged more store deliveries to ensure shelves are stocked, the letter added.

And outlets with online delivery and click-and-collect services are running them at full capacity.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: ‘Retailers are working incredibly hard to keep shops well stocked and deliveries running as smoothly as possible.

‘In the face of unprecedented demand as a result of coronavirus, food retailers have come together to ask their customers to support each other to make sure everyone can get access to the products they need.’

Environment Secretary, George Eustice, said: ‘I fully support the call from British food retailers urging us all to be considerate in the way we shop and look out for our neighbours.

‘By working together, our leading supermarkets have provided the reassurance there is plenty of stock available and people should buy products as they normally would.

‘We are in regular contact with the food industry and retailers are continuing to monitor their supply chains and are taking all the necessary steps to ensure consumers have the food and supplies they need.’