GMP Federation Chairman Stu Berry reacts to the latest Government announcements on Covid-19

11 May 2020

"It is an impossible task to enforce such vague expectations and will simply add further pressure to Policing at this critical time"

GMP Federation Chairman Stu Berry reacts to the latest Government announcements on how to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.

Stu said: "Policing can only do its part to assist with public health if the mandate set by Government is achievable.

"To date our colleagues in Manchester have been doing an excellent policing job in very trying circumstances.

"But now my members have effectively been reduced to the “Two-Metre Police” as the changes announced by the Prime Minister have gifted a plethora of readymade and time-consuming excuses to the minority who only care about themselves.

"It is an impossible task to enforce such vague expectations and will simply add further pressure to Policing at this critical time. We are entering what could be a long and warm summer period as Bars, Pubs and Restaurants remain closed.

"We Police by consent and without clarity we could lose credibility and support.

"Police officers will obviously use their discretion but I would advise my members to think very carefully before considering the use of fixed penalty fines within the newly relaxed guidelines regarding social gathering.

"Any strategy will ultimately be judged by the actions it produces not just the words it contains. The lack of consultation and notice with the organisations tasked to enforce it, is staggering."