'Hit them in the pocket' - What Echo readers said about 'rule of six' fines

That’s the message from Echo readers as they react to the new rule, which was brought into law as of Monday, September 14.

Announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson last week, the rule makes it illegal for groups of more than six people to meet up indoors or outdoors, with limited exemptions.

These include in an organised sports setting, for school or for work.

Policing Minister Kit Malthouse suggested on Monday that people should be educated on how to properly follow the rule on their first breach of the guidelines, before then being fined if they refuse to comply.

We asked you if first-time offenders should be fined for not following the ‘rule of six’ – with the majority of readers calling on those “flouting” the restrictions to be fined as a deterrent to others.

This is what you said on the Sunderland Echo Facebook page:

Anne Fraser: “If the rules are broken they should be fined. Simple!”

Doreen J Robinson: “If someone does wrong then fine them. Hitting them in the pocket might be just what they need and deserve.

Deb Graham: “Clearly people flouting the rules have not lost someone to the horrible Covid or they’d follow the rules.”

Elizabeth Walker-hiles: “Bring a rule out and stick to it. No wonder people are just ignoring wearing masks and social distancing.”

Alison Mason: “What's the point of that? If they break the rules they should be fined immediately.”

Jan Beattie: “It’s because they haven’t been following the rules this law has come into force!”

Peter Kirby: “No it's time to get tough.”

Richard Pallin: “The rules are there, everyone will know. Fine immediately! No excuses, sets an example to deter others!”

Christopher Barker: “Sounds fair, the rules aren't 100% clear since it’s a bit different in the other nations of the UK so give people a chance.”

Kath Cain: “No point setting a penalty if it's not going to be carried out.”

Vicky Adams: “I think you should be given option to disperse and if you refuse begin slapping the fines about!”

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