Two dormant cruise ships could be used as floating hospitals for coronavirus patients.
The PA news agency understands that Saga has told the Government that two of its ships berthed on the River Thames in Essex can be utilised if the NHS becomes overwhelmed by the virus.
The ships, Spirit Of Discovery and Saga Sapphire, are at Tilbury Docks.
Saga, which specialises in travel for over-50s, suspended its cruise operations last week after the Government advised that people over 70 should not sail.
Spirit Of Discovery has a capacity to accommodate 999 people in its normal operation, while Saga Sapphire usually carries up to 720 guests.
No decision has been made on whether they will be used by the NHS.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has previously described hotels as “ready-built facilities for looking after people” if extra beds are required.
