HAMPSHIRE: Neighbours urged to shop people who flout social distancing regulations
The new 'rule of six" came into force on Monday.
It's now illegal for groups of more than six people to take part in social gatherings indoors or outdoors in England.
Hampshire MP and policing minister Kit Malthouse says people should call the non-emergency number 101 if they're concerned about a gathering of more than six people.
Breaches of regulations can also be reported via Hampshire Constabulary's website https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/c19/tell-us-about-possible-breach-coronavirus-measures/
People who repeatedly break the law face fines of up to £3,200.
Assistant Chief Constable of Hampshire Police Maggie Blyth said
" We would urge members of the public to call the police where they feel there's real concerning breaches of the regulations. On the whole we would want members of the community to use online reporting and to use non emergency numbers at all time and to take a proportionate response to determine what is reasonable."
She also says the force are "confident" residents will follow the regulations and guidance and is reminding people to make themselves aware of the exemptions on the government website. https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus.
PLEA TO ACT RESPONSIBLY
Hampshire's Assistant Chief Constable also says we must all play our part.
"Thanks to everyone's efforts, infection rates in our area remain low, but we have seen rises in cases across the county and in other parts of the country, and we must all continue to take personal responsibility to prevent the spread of this deadly virus."
The force stress officers will continue to 'engage, explain and encourage people to comply with the regulations.'
FINES LAST RESORT
Assistant Chief Constable Maggie Blyth says common sense and discretion will be used to determine what is reasonable.
"As a last resort, we will enforce, whether it's by directing people to leave an area, or issuing a fine. We have found that the majority of breaches reported to us can be resolved without having to issue a fine."
Dedicated patrols will also be out in communities, speaking to people and making sure they understand what is required.