'Everyone must play their part' in virus fight.

The British government has urged people to stop unnecessary panic buying over the novel coronavirus outbreak, because there is no shortage of food available at the supermarkets.

Speaking at Saturday’s daily briefing, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary George Eustice asked people to be responsible when they shop.

"Buying more than you need means that others may be left without," he said.

"As you shop, think of those who are finishing their late shifts and need to pop to their local shops."

Eustice outlined government measures such as ending restrictions on deliveries and said that supermarkets are taking on more staff to ensure shelves remain stocked.

"We need every citizen in this country to play their part too,” he said, adding that everyone must respect sale restriction measures in place in some stores, and respect food shop workers.