No ‘rule of six’ fines issued in Sheffield – despite concerns over large groups of people

No fines have been issued by the police yet over ‘rule of six’ breaches in Sheffield.
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South Yorkshire Police said since it became illegal for groups of more than six to gather during the coronavirus pandemic, officers have not yet needed to issue fines for breaches.

The new rule of six law came into force on Monday, September 14 and means that apart from a set of limited exemptions, including work and education, any social gatherings of more than six people are illegal.

A crowd gathering on the streets of Page Hall in Sheffield last weekA crowd gathering on the streets of Page Hall in Sheffield last week
A crowd gathering on the streets of Page Hall in Sheffield last week
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Police will be able to disperse any such gatherings and fine individuals involved £100.

Organisers and facilitators of larger gatherings of more than 30 people can be fines of up to £10,000.

South Yorkshire Police said: “We haven’t issued any fixed penalty notices at this time in relation to any rule of six breaches.”

Steve Kent, chairman of the South Yorkshire branch of the Police Federation, said: “I am concerned with the rule of six and potential further restrictions coupled with the government language on how we police them.

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“The government’s apparent hard line stance goes against the policing style in the UK as we police by consent and strict enforcement should be a last resort.

“Also, and more importantly, we are back to normal demand in South Yorkshire and officers are very busy being pulled from pillar to post dealing with serious incidents, domestic violence and serious crime. Dealing with frequent rule breaches could also add to the enormous pressure.

“I am hoping as with the face mask regulations, which have been largely followed without issue, that people abide by the rules and use common sense when considering when it has come to the point the police have to be involved.”

Announcing the rule of six, Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “Across the country, we have all made enormous sacrifices in the fight against coronavirus. However, the recent rise in cases makes it clear that more needs to be done to stop the spread of this disease.

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“As we continue to fight this virus, I urge the public not participate in social gatherings of more than six people in any setting.”

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