Commissioner updates MPs on latest Covid-19 situation

Wiltshire and Swindon MPs have been updated on the latest COVID-19 situation in the county thanks to the weekly briefing chaired by the Wiltshire and Swindon Police and Crime Commissioner.

Angus Macpherson was joined by Chief Constable Kier Pritchard and Tracey Cox head of the local health Clinical Commissioning Group, during yesterday's (29/04) virtual meeting, along with the county's MPs and leaders of the two local authorities.

He said: "A key and on-going part of our roles is to ensure transparency and legitimacy within our police force even during these unusual times.  

"Leaders were pleased to hear a report by the Chief Constable that the police have seen low levels of absence amongst officers and staff and that the public on the whole continues to respond positively to the lockdown with compliance still high.

"Linked to that, the police have also reported that numbers of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) issued have reduced, supporting the ethos that engaging, explaining and encouraging people to return home remain the three priorities for officers, and that enforcement is still the last resort. 

"I was also able to report that our partnerships with other key, local agencies continues to be strong with each supporting one another with the aim of protecting those most vulnerable in our communities.

"The feedback from our MPs and council leaders was very positive and I know they join me in commending the outstanding work being undertaken by officers, staff and volunteers as these unsettling times continue." 

The weekly briefings ensure elected members and council leaders have a good insight into the current policing response.