It is tragic that a 13 -year-old boy from Brixton has died of Coronavirus. A girl of 12 has also died in Brussels. How awful for their families. Everyone feels for their extreme grief as we do for any family that has lost someone. The loss of such young lives does show though that we are all vulnerable – not just the elderly and those at especial risk. So, it re-emphasises the point that we have no choice but to stick to social distancing measures which everyone now knows well.
To that end I have now received a briefing from the local Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Dave Stringer (photograph). So, most of what I write for the rest of this post is taken from that briefing.
Let me start by saying the local police welcome the much clearer latest guidance on stopping people in the street.
However, additional Government instructions now make it an offence though for any non-essential retail premises – such as hairdressers or barbers – to stay open. My own hair is getting a bit wild so it looks like my wife will have her chance to slash at it!
Obviously, it remains an offence for people to gather in groups and the police have explicit instructions to interfere if that happens.
I gather though that the vast majority of people who are meeting the police are very positive and complying with the new regulations. However, should it be necessary (I hope not) the police can fine people on the spot. They are able to issue penalty notices to anyone over 18 years of age starting at £60 (reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days) or £120 for a second offence, doubling on each further offence.
In truth the local bobbies don’t want to issue fines and they tell me that they will be surprised if they have to do so. But they do have that power which they can use for those intent on breaking the law – and it is the law now.
I think everyone who is reading my post will know the basic rules on social distancing but the police have informed me that they have some refinements to those instructions. For instance, people also can be outside their homes to:
• Attend a funeral of a member of their household or a close family member
• Carry out a legal obligation.
• Access critical public services, such as childcare or educational facilities (where still available), social services, or victims’ services.
• Facilitate access to children where parents or carers live in separate households
• Participate in gatherings of more than two people in public spaces in very limited circumstances; such as in response to an emergency or for essential work purposes.
In summary, the key point made by Chief Superintendent Dave Stringer is that his officers will use their common sense in applying the law. I would not have expected anything less and thank both him and all his brave officers for looking after us all so well in these extraordinary times.