The government has bought in a new health protection bill which
contains new powers for the police to help manage the spread of
the coronavirus.
These powers give all police officers the power to direct
infected people to go and immediately receive treatment or
self-isolate at home. They will also support officers in dealing
with those who are not complying with the social-distancing
restrictions. The government has been clear that it expects
people to do the right thing in order to protect the NHS and save
lives.
This applies to the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) officers who work
protecting nuclear sites across the country and the government
has made it clear that compliance with these regulations is an
absolute priority for the nation.
The police force as a whole polices by consent and will continue
to do so throughout this time of unprecedented national
emergency. In the first instance, CNC officers will be
engaging, explaining and encouraging members of the public to
follow the restrictions. This will include asking whether an
individual is aware of the government request; establish
individual circumstances and how quickly someone can comply.
Officers will also explain the risks to public health, and to the
NHS in line with government guidance and encourage voluntary
compliance.
Our officers will continue to carry out their nationally vital
core Mission in keeping our civil nuclear sites safe and secure,
while ensuring the communities around the sites that we police
are protected.
