Police urged to use common sense over lockdown powers

POLICE HAVE faced criticism for their handling of new powers to enforce the lockdown, even as they come to the defence of a key worker in York who was spat at and threatened.

Over the weekend, Lancashire Police issued fines for 123 breaches of the rules, while South Wales Police hit out at MP Stephen Kinnock for visiting his father on his birthday.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has said that police should use “common sense” in applying the rules, but also that the public should “follow the guidance, not just to the letter but also to the spirit”. Britain’s most senior police officer, Dame Cressida Dick, has told her force only to use the new powers, which allow them to fine or arrest those who break lockdown laws, as a last resort.

She told LBC: “We are all getting used to the new restrictions and I’ve been very clear that in the first instance I want my officers to be engaging with people, talking to people, encouraging them to comply.

“Explaining, of course, if they don’t understand and, only as a very last resort with the current restrictions, using firm direction or even enforcement.”

The new powers come amid a series of incidents in Yorkshire which have seen people including police officers coughed or spat on as they go about their work.

In the latest incident, a shop worker in York was spat at by someone who made veiled threats over their contracting coronavirus.

A 29-year-old man has been charged with assault.

Chief Insp Fee Willey, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Our colleagues in the retail sector are doing such an amazing job working to support our communities during this challenging time. We’re committed to supporting all key workers and anyone suspected of jeopardising their safety will be dealt with.”