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Nearly 17,000 fines for alleged breaches of coronavirus lockdown rules issued in England and Wales

Police officers in a patrol car move sunbathers on in Greenwich Park: PA
Police officers in a patrol car move sunbathers on in Greenwich Park: PA

Police in England and Wales have issued nearly 17,000 fines for alleged breaches of the coronavirus lockdown, data from the National Police Chiefs' Council reveals.

15,552 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) were recorded by forces in England up until 25 May, while 1,395 were issued in Wales.

Provisional figures show a significant reduction in the number of fines issued after lockdown measures were eased on 13 May, with a total of 841 fines handed out in England.

From 27 March, officers were able to issue fines if individuals did not comply after officers engaged with them to explain the government public health regulations to slow the spread of coronavirus.

When lockdown restrictions were eased on 13 May, the minimum fine in England increased from £60 to £100, reducing if paid within 14 days. The upper limit for fines also increased from £960 to £3,200.