BREAKING New police guidance for officers in England says police have “no powers to enforce social distancing”

The new guidance is from @CollegeofPolice Separate guidance applies to Wales

Met Commissioner Cressida Dick said easing of restrictions will make policing “slightly more complicated” but says there’ve been “incredibly high levels of compliance” so far. It’s “very rare” for people to be fined she says

Cressida Dick says police officers “can only advise” re social distancing & says it’s not their role to ensure people queue appropriately outside tube stations & at bus stops. “It’s not our job to steward a queue,” she says.

The “major part of our work” enforcing lockdown restrictions - says Cressida Dick - will be preventing “larger gatherings “ she says.

The new @CollegeofPolice guidance for England says: “Officers should only enforce the Health Protection Regulations- government guidance is not enforceable, for example 2-metre distancing, avoiding public transport or the wearing of face coverings in enclosed spaces”

So, police can still stop or fine you for leaving your home without a “reasonable excuse”, gathering in non-household groups of three or more, going on holiday & visiting friends at their home. But they can’t fine you or stop you if you stand too close to someone.