Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Paragraph: 42
The Government’s communication of new covid-19 offences created in response to the pandemic was essential...
Conclusion
The Government’s communication of new covid-19 offences created in response to the pandemic was essential to ensuring both that public and law enforcement agencies understood what was prohibited and delivering high levels of compliance.
Paragraph Reference:
42
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
We agree that good communication is essential to delivering compliance and protecting public health. Throughout the pandemic the Government has communicated what everyone should do to minimise the risk to themselves, their loved ones and the population as a whole. This has been underpinned by regulations that outline what individuals can and cannot do. The Government has sought to learn lessons on its communications approach. For example, we have had a continued dialogue with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), engagement with local authorities, and scientific input to inform which measures are needed. We have also responded to feedback from the general public, businesses and Parliament where we were told at the beginning of the pandemic that greater clarity was needed on what people should and should not do. As part of this process, we reviewed guidance and Government communications and acted to both simplify it and make it more accessible. We have continued to develop this and have included clearer explanations of why people needed to follow the rules, to support individuals in making an informed decision to comply. As with other parts of the response to the pandemic, we will look to learn lessons on how we have communicated guidance and public health Regulations, in particular through the public inquiry into COVID-19, and will take this forward for planning for future pandemics.