Police chief accused of 'inflaming tensions' over Christmas comments
A West Midlands police chief has been accused of "inflaming tensions" after suggesting officers could break up Christmas dinners if they breached lockdown rules.
Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) David Jamieson warned Christmas family gatherings which break coronavirus rules would be broken up.
However, his comments were immediately seized upon by critics who said police have no powers to enter properties.
The West Midlands is currently in Tier 2 of the Covid regulation and there is growing pressure on the Government to confirm whether families will be able to spend Christmas together.
Jay Singh-Sohal, who is hoping to become the next PCC, said "alarmist statements" were unhelpful at a time when many people were already anxious.
The Conservative candidate for next year's election said: "Firstly, West Midlands Police do not have a relevant power of entry to allow them to enter private property without consent.
"Secondly, by saying they could, David Jamieson is breaking the police protocol by wading into areas of operational policing and the job of the Chief Constable. As our elected PCC, Mr Jamieson is there to hold the police to account, not to enforce the rules.
"I believe that a serious and measured approach from Conservative and Labour politicians is what is needed and what the public expect, to be guided by what is best for all at this time of restrictions upon our civil liberties.
"But Mr Jamieson has taken to the media to inflame worry, tensions and concerns rather than inform and guide people on the path of public safety and security."
Labour PCC Mr Jamieson told the Express & Star the force’s focus at Christmas would be on “large and flagrant breaches of the rules”, as he called for clarity from the Government.
“Unless the Government says otherwise the police will continue with their current approach,” he added.
