Police boss states need for extra funds after PM announces latest Covid-19 measures

In his speech to the Commons on September 22, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the latest series of measures to halt the spread of Covid-19, with businesses facing fines or closure for failing to comply with coronavirus rules and people facing penalties for failing to wear masks where required or breaching the so-called “rule of six”.

Other measures included a curfew ordering pubs, bars and restaurants in England to close by 10 pm each night from Thursday as well as new rules for Customers in indoor hospitality to wear face coverings – except while seated at a table to eat or drink.

The Prime Minister also announced that police and local authorities will be given an initial £60 million to support additional enforcement activity, in addition to funding that has already been awarded.

Now, Nottinghamshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Paddy Tipping has responded to the Prime Minister, stating the need for more funds than what were previously announced to enable police forces across the country to enforce the latest Covid-19 regulations.

Mr Tipping said: “These new and necessary restrictions are a stark reminder to us all that we must all play our part in trying to control the rise in coronavirus infections.

“PCCs will continue to work with chief constables, partners, and local communities to make sure the right support and resources are in place and that the public understand the rules and indeed the consequences if they are knowingly flouting the rules.

“I am pleased that there will be extra funding provided for police and local authorities, PCCs will play an active role in making sure it reaches the parts of policing that need it the most.”

In a bid to crack down on people flouting the rules, there will be a greater police presence on the streets with the option to bring in military support where required to free up the police.

Mr Tipping added: “It has been suggested that the government will make £60m available to fund police overtime as clearly extra officers can't just be conjured up.

“If the Prime Minister really wants to do the job properly, police forces will need at least £300m.

“I believe that the vast majority of the public will adhere to these new restrictions and do their bit to curtail the spread of the virus.

“Police officers will continue to engage, explain, and encourage people to do the right thing before taking enforcement action, I am sure communities will continue to work with them to help reduce the infection rate, save lives and avoid fines.”

Last year, £150m was made available to just 18 police forces by the government in an effort to tackle knife crime across the country.

Police in England now have the powers to hand out fines of up to £10,000 for businesses who breach the regulations put in place, and people can be fined £200 for not wearing face coverings in shops, supermarkets, public transport, taxis and indoor hospitality.