Chief constable responds to criticism of tactics used by some forces to police coronavirus lockdown

The chief constable of North Wales Police has responded to criticism of tactics used by some UK forces to enforce the coronavirus lockdown.

The debate was sparked after a former supreme court justice said on Monday that excessive measures were in danger of turning the UK into a “police state”.

In particular, Lord Sumption chose to single out Derbyshire Police for deploying drones and dying the water of a lagoon black to make it less appealing to visitors.

While much of the spotlight has been on forces in other areas, North.Wales has seen a small number of people questioning the approach taken by police here in the comments on our increasingly popular Facebook page (don’t forget to click on the ‘like’ button!).

It is worth noting though that the majority appear to be in favour of the actions taken, particularly the vehicle checks carried out over the weekend to stop tourists descending on the region

Carl Foulkes, the highest ranking officer in North Wales, has now clarified that his officers will only use their enforcement powers as a “last resort”.

Posting on Twitter today, he said: “Reflecting on both media and issues that have come into my office in relation to policing approach.

“I am clear I want my officers to use discretion Engage, Educate, Encourage & only Enforce as last resort.

“We won’t always get it right but we are working hard to ensure consistency.”

One question we have frequently seen pop up is whether driving a short distance to do exercise is seen as acceptable.

We are aware that in some cases police in the region have been seen at country parks and other locations leaving notices on cars parked nearby.

Although perhaps not a definitive answer, the chief constable said: “We will take a pragmatic view as it is difficult to give an absolute based on the circumstances, but we do understand that some people will need to drive a short distance.”

Public Health Wales has shared the following advice on when it is acceptable to leave the house.

By staying at home 🏡, you are playing your part in limiting the spread of the virus and helping to save lives 💓 pic.twitter.com/zbxnMo0ljd

— Public Health Wales (@PublicHealthW) March 31, 2020