The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
No further action by police over professor in lockdown breach
Professor Neil Ferguson will not face further action by police after accepting he made an “error of judgment” by breaching social-distancing rules despite being a key figure in influencing the lockdown.
Scotland Yard criticised his behaviour as “plainly disappointing” but ruled out issuing a fine because he “has taken responsibility” after resigning as a key government adviser in the coronavirus response.
The researcher, whose work was crucial in Boris Johnson’s move to enforce strict conditions, stood down from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) after allowing a woman to visit him at his London home.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the Imperial College London professor had made the “right decision to resign” from Sage but it was a matter for police to decide whether to take further action.
The Metropolitan Police declined to say whether officers had spoken directly to Prof Ferguson.
The latest data shows more than 9,000 fines have been issued across England and Wales for flouting lockdown rules.
The Telegraph reported that Prof Ferguson allowed Antonia Staats to visit him at home in London at least twice during the lockdown, on March 30 and April 8.
Prof Ferguson’s research warned that 250,000 people could die in the UK without drastic action before the prime minister imposed restrictions.
“I accept I made an error of judgment and took the wrong course of action. I have therefore stepped back from my involvement in Sage,” Prof Ferguson said.
“I acted in the belief that I was immune, having tested positive for coronavirus, and completely isolated myself for almost two weeks after developing symptoms.”