WEST Dunbartonshire's MP has expressed his “disappointment” after there have been reports of non-essential businesses asking their employees to go to work - despite the clear government guidance not to.

Martin Docherty-Hughes has urged employers to do the right thing, and close, to keep their staff and the wider public safe.

On Monday, the government placed the country in lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

On Tuesday, a furious employee of Chivas Brothers in Dumbarton blasted the company for remaining open despite claims no measures had been taken to protect the workers from the virus.

The company suspended operations until safety processes were reviewed.

Mr Docherty-Hughes said: "The vast majority of employers in West Dunbartonshire have done the right thing by following the government's guidance. However, I am extremely disappointed at reports that certain non-essential business remains open unnecessarily putting the health of their employees and the wider public at risk.

"The government has been clear that the only workplaces permitted to remain open at this time are those vital to the fight against coronavirus and essential to the wellbeing of the nation.

"If these companies cannot put in place necessary social-distancing measures and protections to ensure the safety of their employees then the premises must immediately close.

“I'd urge employers to do the right thing by their staff and customers or they risk facing strict enforcement action through the government's emergency coronavirus legislation."