'No apology' for tough enforcement action during Lockdown 2 if people break rules

Northumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner has said officers will take ‘tough enforcement’ against those who break the rules during England’s second national lockdown, which began today (Thursday, November 5).
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

In a statement, Kim McGuinness said the force’s police officers will enforce the rules set out by the Government throughout the four-week lockdown, which is due to run until Wednesday, December 2.

People are being asked to remain at home and only to go out for essential reasons such as shopping, work and exercise from today. Households are also not allowed to mix.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Those caught breaking the rules could face fines of up to £10,000.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness says she will "make no apologies" for tough enforcement throughout lockdown.Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness says she will "make no apologies" for tough enforcement throughout lockdown.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness says she will "make no apologies" for tough enforcement throughout lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new lockdown in a televised press conference on Saturday, October 31.

Read More
'Intoxicated' man taken to hospital after fall on rock at Marsden cliffs

Ms McGuinness said officers will aim to get the balance of enforcement right – but will be tough on those who are causing ‘deliberate harm’ during the restrictions.

She said: “When it comes to imposing the rules, our officers are keen to get the balance right but I make no apology for tough enforcement being used when it comes to keeping the people of our region safe.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Anyone responsible for holding parties or organising large gatherings are quite simply causing deliberate harm.

"Those attending these events need to be aware that they may be diverting officers away from other important actions, making it harder for the police to keep us safe.

"Whether you’re supportive of the idea of a lockdown or not, the more we adhere to the rules, the more things will improve and the sooner we will all be out of restrictions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Ms McGuinness also urged members of the public across the force area to stick to the rules to help get the virus under control.

She added: “I’ll continue calling for clarity on what happens after lockdown is lifted.

“Let’s all keep doing out bit to protect each other - our family, friends and community.

"A lockdown isn’t worth having if we don’t all adhere to it. We’ve got a way to go yet but together we can help our great region get the virus under control.

The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive.

We are now more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news by buying a copy of our newspaper.

If you can, please do pick up a copy when you are at the shops. Thank you for your support.