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Commenting, Neil Leitch, chief executive of the Early Years Alliance, said:

"We know that many childcare providers have been concerned about the prospect of being asked to temporarily close to all but key worker and vulnerable children at very short notice as a result of a local lockdown. As such, we welcome clarity that this will only happen if it's absolutely necessary to do so.

"That said, the health and safety of early years staff and children must always be a priority, and so it's important that where there is a local lockdown, the rationale behind the level of lockdown that has been decided on is clearly communicated to all involved.

"What's more, while unlikely, there remains a possibility that some early years providers could be asked to temporarily close over the coming months -  something that would have a hugely detrimental financial impact on any affected settings, particularly as the Job Retention Scheme draws to a close.

"It is vital, therefore, that the government provides clarity on what financial support will be available to childcare providers who are forced to close as part of a local lockdown. Without this, those asked to shut their doors temporarily may find themselves unable to reopen them."