'We all have to work together'

30 March 2020

Hertfordshire Chief Constable Charlie Hall has appealed for the public’s help to make policing the restrictions on social movement easier for all concerned.

Since the Government’s announcement last week on new powers for forces to fine people who are making ‘non-essential journeys’, Hertfordshire officers have been out and about talking to the public and passing on information to make the current situation as clear as possible.

“I don’t really want to enforce them,” said Mr Hall. “All I am looking for is good compliance across all of our communities.

“I have been out and the vast majority of people are taking the restrictions very seriously. I want to thank them for that.

“If absolutely necessary, we will use those powers but please work with us because we don’t want to use them.”

Hertfordshire Police Federation secretary Al Wollaston added: “The new powers which officers have will only be used if people don’t use their common sense and stay at home for all but essential journeys.

“If we all work together and stay at home during these times, we really can save lives.”

Watch Mr Hall’s full message.