THE Liberal Democrat Police and Crime Commissioner candidate for the West Midlands, Councillor Jon Hunt, has called for clarity on police powers under the current lockdown rules.
Coun Hunt, group leader of the Lib Dems on Birmingham City Council, spoke out following news that police will issue fines to coronavirus rule breakers after one warning.
He said: “The police are doing an incredibly difficult job in extremely challenging circumstances.
“Along with our other public services, they are at the front line of dealing with the fall-out of the pandemic.
“The guidance given to our police has to be absolutely clear on what is legal, and what isn’t.
“Consistent application of the law helps to build understanding and trust in the public.
“Policing is always most successful when officers act with the consent of the public.
“The public, therefore, must do all they can to help defeat the pandemic, by following the rules, and protecting themselves, and their communities.
“This, along with the proper support from the government, will allow the police to serve our communities as effectively as possible.”
