Source · Select Committees · Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee
Recommendation 17
17
The Government’s published draft legislation for implementing future local lockdowns (referred to in Chapter 2...
Conclusion
The Government’s published draft legislation for implementing future local lockdowns (referred to in Chapter 2 of this report) should mean that it is easier to publish all information immediately when implementing new local lockdowns or relaxing local lockdowns slowly. However, the draft legislation should be viewed as a “living document” and should be updated as other responses are developed. (Paragraph 78) Points of interest for the House for the six-monthly review
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
HMG notes the Committee’s concerns and recognises that there has, on occasion, been an interval between the announcement of changes, and the making of the regulations that—at least in part—underpin those changes. We acknowledge this and will continually strive to ensure that future announcements are made in good time. We also recognise the difference between guidance given and the law it supports and will strive to ensure appropriate wording and clarity is given in future. Nonetheless, the purpose of these changes is to protect the public’s health, not to criminalise individuals, and we therefore encourage adherence to the range of actions that the public must take. The clarity of messaging has greatly increased over time as a direct result of how the understanding of the scientific evidence has increased. For example, it was only when the scientific evidence on the benefit of wearing face masks became clear that regulations and therefore messaging was reinforced. However, we still continue to face difficulties in balancing the need for swift action and testing the clarity of communication. 12 Fifth Special Report of Session 2019–21 Points of Interest for the House for the Six-monthly Review