OUTDOOR exercise could be banned if people flout the social distancing rules, the UK Health Secretary has warned.

Matt Hancock said sunbathing in public spaces was against government guidance, and told those who dared to disobey that they are putting their own and others' lives at risk.

As temperatures rose across the UK, some parks closed because too many people had ignored the advice to stay at home.

READ MORE: Matt Hancock 'should have self-isolated for longer than seven days'

Hancock told the BBC: "We've said it's OK to go for exercise because both the physical and mental health benefits of getting some exercise are really important.

"I don't want to have to take away exercise as a reason to leave home... if too many people are not following the rules.

"At the moment the vast majority of people are (following the guidance) but people should not break the rules because that will mean that the virus spreads more and then we might have to take further action."

He also confirmed that Boris Johnson continues to have a high temperature but is "OK" and in "good spirits" as he remains in self-isolation in Downing Street.

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