Police officers told they have no power to enforce face masks or two-metre rule under National Police Chief’s Council guidance

The National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) has issued new guidance for officers on enforcing the changes in the rules.

It says the latest Government guidelines allow for greater movement in public spaces and adds: “Officers should only enforce the Health Protection Regulations – government guidance is not enforceable, for example two-metre distancing, avoiding public transport or the wearing of face coverings in enclosed spaces.”

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It underlines that the advice to remain at home still stands: “People are still not allowed to leave or be outside of their homes without a reasonable excuse.”

Under the new guidelines, there has been an expansion to the reasons people are allowed to be out, including collecting goods from a business permitted to remain open (click and collect) and visiting other shops selling essential goods and outdoor sport courts.

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Unlimited exercise is permitted and people are allowed to visit public open spaces for recreation to promote their physical, mental or emotional wellbeing alone or with with ONE member of another household for or, as previously, with members of their own household.

Recycling and waste disposal facilities and garden centres are allowed to open.

Sunderland reopened its Deptford recycling site on Monday, with residents able to apply to the city council, with slots of 30 minutes allocated and proof of residence and their booking to be shown in the car windscreen.

The rules do not permit people to go on holiday – including staying at a holiday home or second home; to visit the homes of friends and family (exceptions include to protect a vulnerable person, for medical purposes or to escape risk of harm).

Fine levels have been increased from £60 up to £100 for the first offence, with a maximum sum of up to £3,200.

The new NPCC guidance says ‘officers’ judgement and discretion are key’ and urges them to apply the four ‘E’s – Engage, Explain, Encourage, and only Enforce as a last resort.

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