Police step up patrols to enforce strict social distancing rules
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POLICE Scotland will be stepping up patrols to ensure people comply with social distancing measures.
The move comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson last night tightened the rules in the attempt to slow the spread of coronavirus – measures which amount to a lockdown.
The strict new measures ask people to only leave home where absolutely necessary for food shopping and medicine, to exercise once a day and to travel for work if essential.
Police will have powers to fine people who are not complying with the curbs.
Chief Constable Iain Livingstone QPM said in a statement last night: "We are fully behind the new measures announced by the UK and Scottish governments to increase social distancing, and I urge and expect everyone to comply with them.
"We are aware of the proposed legislation in relation to coronavirus and are carefully considering the implications in this very fast-moving situation, which presents the gravest of threats to the nation.
"In the meantime, Police Scotland has a clear, positive duty to both protect life and improve the safety and wellbeing of people across Scotland, while supporting the government and health agencies in our fight against this pandemic.
"Therefore, until the new legislation is in place, we will be increasing police patrols in key areas across the country to engage with and provide guidance to anyone in contravention of the measures."
