Over the past month, the number of new cases of coronavirus infection has increased 6 times. The increase in cases is accelerating: their number has doubled in the past week. Against this background, the British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, announced another toughening of penalties for non-compliance with security rules.
Self-isolation requirement
New laws are being hastily passed to ensure self-isolation. A sick person will be charged with 10,000 pounds fine if he violates self-isolation. For people from the patient’s social circle, the fine will be 1,000 pounds for leaving the house. Police will visit the homes of self-isolating people and check compliance with the law. The police will also check anonymous calls and messages from neighbors about violations of the rules.
The same fine of 10,000 pounds is also expected by employers who force sick people to go to work.
Britain’s Home Secretary, Priti Patel, warned fellow citizens: “These new measures aim to save lives. Everyone should take personal responsibility and self-isolate if they test positive. For those who do not, the police will enforce the law. These new fines are a clear sign that we will not allow those who break the rules to reverse the hard-won progress of the law-abiding majority.”
Mass events postponing requirements
The ban on groups of more than 6 people was introduced on September 14. Previously, groups of up to 30 people were allowed to meet outdoors. Violators will be fined 100 pounds. In the case of repeated violations, the penalty is doubled. The maximum amount is 3,200 pounds.
At the same time, a curfew was imposed from 22:00. All restaurants, bars, and pubs must close at this time.
The current package of laws will also ban inter-family communication.
Mask wearing obligations
On July 24, the rule on mandatory wearing of masks came into force. Customers who don’t wear masks can be fined 100 pounds.
A similar requirement to wear masks on public transport was introduced on June 15.
Refusal Policy
Officials of the UK Home Office further explain the new laws. If a person refuses to pay a 100 pound fine on the spot, they are arrested and taken to court. Repeat offenders also face criminal records.
Violations stats
More than 14,000 fines have been issued across England and Wales since May 13. Since the end of June, police have registered violations at more than 1,000 events. And on some weekends, their number reached 200.
For example, on September 4, a teenager was fined for organizing a house party while his parents were away. More than 100 people attended the event. The fine is 10,000 pounds.
On September 11, a house party for 45 people organizer was also fined for 10,000 pounds.
The August outbreak in Bolton was attributed to a Clubber who had thrown a party after returning from Ibiza.
Expectations
The Prime Minister is trying to prevent a second wave of coronavirus with such strict measures.
Let us see how it will go in next winter
Sources:
The Sun: What are the fines for breaking lockdown rules?
