Police and Crime Commissioner for West Yorkshire | WYPCC

PCC update on the latest Covid-19 guidance

23rd September 2020

Mark Burns-Williamson, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for West Yorkshire, said:

“The announcement of these new restrictions are a stark reminder that we must now all play our part in trying to control the further rise in coronavirus infections in our communities and across the country.

“I will be continuing to work closely with the Chief Constable, key partners, and our local communities to make sure the right support and resources are in place and that the public are clear about understanding the rules as far as possible and what the implications are if they are knowingly flouting the rules.

“I will be looking to help secure extra resources from Government for the police and local authorities wherever possible and when we are able to receive it.

“I have already been discussing these latest developments with the Chief Constable to ensure the policing approach remains appropriate and adaptable in targeting activity where it’s most needed, whilst at the same time responding to other crime and community safety demands.

“I would urge everyone to read carefully the latest guidelines and understand what they mean for you and your family and to keep fully updated.

“As I said when further restrictions were recently introduced in the Bradford, Kirklees and Calderdale districts of West Yorkshire, it is crucial that we understand and realise the importance of reducing infections across our county in using our common sense to prevent any further spread within our communities or to loved ones, friends and colleagues.

“Police officers and staff will rightly continue with the approach of engaging, explaining, and encouraging people to do the right thing before taking appropriate enforcement action where necessary. I am sure communities will want to work with them to help reduce the infection rate, save lives and avoid increased fines wherever possible.

“However, it’s clear that we all need to work together collectively to ensure we are contributing to minimise the risk and getting through this next period the best we can, not only for ourselves, but for our families and the wider community, some who are more at risk and vulnerable to this virus than others.”