Statement from Leicestershire Police Federation Chairman following the announcement of a local lockdown

30 June 2020

Statement from Leicestershire Police Federation Chairman following the announcement of a local lockdown

Dave Stokes, Chairman of Leicestershire Police Federation, said: “With news of the practicalities of the 'Leicester Lockdown' still emerging, we will be working with Chief Officers at Leicestershire Police on how this new direction affects our members and the public we serve.

“It’s essential we get clarity from the Government as soon as possible on what the public can and can’t do in this targeted lockdown. As we have seen over recent weeks and months, if the guidance and messaging from Government is confusing for the public then it will be almost impossible for our colleagues to police. 

“We still wait for confirmation on what our colleagues' exact roles will be in policing, and potentially enforcing, this 'Leicester Lockdown', and what legislation our members will be asked to use. We have seen examples from across the country that 'common sense' is impossible to police.  

“But what we can say to the public is please work with our brave Leicestershire Police officers over the coming days and weeks as we strive to get through this together. We police by consent and need the public to come with us on this.

“It’s worth remembering that our members will be working away from their families and loved ones, and putting themselves at heightened risk to keep people safe - as they have been throughout the Covid-19 crisis.”