The Metropolitan Police have again come under fire, yet again for allowing people to flout lockdown social distancing measures, this time on Westminster Bridge, led by the UK’s top cop.
Video footage has emerged that shows hundreds of people including the police flouting the law as they gathered closely to clap for the NHS.
The video show police standing shoulder to shoulder and members of the public, with their police cars parked with their blue lights on.
Cressida Dick, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner was also seen on the bridge allowing the flouting of the government’s rules, and not leading by example.
Damir Rafi a doctor at St Thomas’ Hospital in central London, said, “I’m a doctor working at the hospital that’s right there.
“And yes, I was also somewhat perplexed by the lack of social distancing…”
Another Twitter user wrote, “Regardless of the time, and your clapping for NHS staff, you don’t get immunity in this period!
“Police are NOT enforcing social distancing AT ALL; they are complicit.”
https://twitter.com/d_rafi1/status/1250864574984867856
Sharing the video, Dale Lowe said, “Should we applaud the stupidity of every person on Westminster Bridge.
“No social distancing, not staying at home and certainly not protecting the NHS. You couldn’t make this up.”
Others said, “This is so silly – yes praise the NHS but not whilst you’re mixing in the city centre not socially distanced from others and therefore potentially adding more stress to the NHS and putting yourself and others at risk.”
This comes just two weeks after the Metropolitan Police were caught congregating drinking coffee whilst many people were gathered together, sitting on benches enjoying the sun.
Some people were shaking hands and were quite clearly from other households, two elderly men were seen together, with leaning on a man’s shoulder.
Following the criticism, the Metropolitan Police released a statement which said: “Officers, along with other emergency service workers, came together last night on Westminster Bridge to celebrate the work of all key workers.
“A large number of members of the public also gathered to express their gratitude.
“While many people adhered to social distancing guidance, it appears that some did not.
“We regularly remind our officers of the importance of social distancing where practical, and will continue do so.”
Officers joined #clapforNHS outside Chelsea and Westminster hospital tonight
Thank you to the real heroes. #ClapForCarers pic.twitter.com/aTEZCPgseF
— Kensington & Chelsea Police (@MPSKenChel) April 16, 2020
He added, “We would ask that in showing their appreciation for those who are working so hard as carers, they do so in a way which adheres to the social distancing rules.”
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