The Czech government will ask lawmakers to extend its emergency powers until December 3, Reuters quoted Prime Minister Andrej Babis as saying on Tuesday, as it tries to stem one of the strongest surges in Covid-19 infections in Europe.

The government has strictly tightened restrictions this month, including shutting restaurants and most retail shops, along with public places like pools, fitness centres, cinemas and theatres.

Schools are closed and the government said on Tuesday students would not return as planned next week.

Starting on Wednesday, people will face a 9pm curfew with few exceptions and those shops allowed to open will have to close by 8pm and completely on Sunday.

The government had been expected to seek an extension for its powers, which run out on November 3.