Extra police officers have been deployed at railway stations to stop people from making non-essential Tier 4 journeys, British Transport Police announced on Sunday.
In a statement released in the afternoon, BTP said it would have an enhanced presence of officers at stations across the network following last night's Tier 4 announcement.
More BTP officers will be on patrol at all major transport hubs across London and the south-east. They have been ordered to ask passengers of their travel plans and will remind them of the Government's Tier 4 restrictions saying people must stay at home and only use public transport for essential journeys.
Members of the public who do need to travel will be reminded of the requirement to wear a face covering, unless exempt, and to adhere to social distancing as best as possible.
© Provided by Evening Standard An officer patrols the near-empty concourse at Waterloo station
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It comes following chaotic and crowded scenes at London's transport hubs on Saturday night as desperate people attempting to get home before new restrictions came in to force overnight.
Assistant Chief Constable, Sean O'Callaghan, said: "The advice is clear, and we are confident that the large majority of people will abide by the restrictions in place.
"As has been the case throughout the pandemic, officers will be supporting rail staff through high-visibility patrols across England, Scotland and Wales, ensuring those on the network are safe. Our policing method remains the same - officers will engage with passengers and only use enforcement if absolutely necessary.
"Anyone planning a journey over the festive period is urged to consider whether travelling is essential and encouraged to stay at home as per latest Government advice. This is a difficult time for all of us, but these restrictions are in place to save lives, stop the spread of the virus and support the NHS."
Earlier, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "Extra BTP officers are being deployed to ensure only those who need to take essential journeys can travel safely."
Mr Shapps added: "If you are in Tier 4, the law means you must stay at home and you cannot stay overnight away from home. Across the rest of the country, you must stay local."