Policing set to be under pressure as pubs re-open

25 June 2020

Hertfordshire Police Federation chair Geoff Bardell says policing and other emergency services are likely to be put under pressure next weekend when pubs re-open.

The Government is allowing pubs to open their doors to customers on 4 July as it attempts to lead the nation out of lockdown.

“We really appreciate that the re-opening of pubs is a significant step towards the normal life we have all missed,” says Geoff, “But people also need to be aware that there are still restrictions in place. People need to observe social distancing and the rules being adopted to keep pub staff and customers safe.

“I hope we don’t see drunken, irresponsible behaviour on our streets as people celebrate the pubs opening because that will inevitably end up with police officers having to get involved. There is also risk that due to the restrictions on numbers necessary to allow social distancing people may be turned away from a bar and this could lead to disturbances.

“Police officers have been on the front-line throughout the pandemic so I hope their efforts and the outstanding work of the NHS remain in people’s minds when they go back to drinking in pubs next weekend. But, sadly, I think we are going to see both the police service and the NHS put under pressure.”

John Apter, national chair of the Police Federation, has also expressed his concerns.

“The announcement of this easing of lockdown has been done in such a way that a head of steam will be gathering between now and 4 July, which could be seen by some as a countdown to party time, which is not accurate and certainly not the message we want to send,” he said.