Legal Interpretation of the new covid laws.
Posted: March 31st, 2020, 9:20 am
What do the coronavirus regulations actually mean in law.
The contentious parts regarding over zealous policing seem to surround the question of what is and is not legally permitted in term of leaving my abode.
IANAL so I'd value any legal clarification on the law here. I have several questions.
1. What is essential business? If my bike has a puncture can I take it to the local bike shop? Can I go to B&Q to buy supplies for DIY projects? Can I drive to pick up an item bought on eBay assuming I comply with reasonable social distancing measures? Can I buy an easter egg?
2. The way I read the regulations, going out for exercise is OK. Boris said once a day, Gove said an hour walking, 30 minutes running or something in between for cycling. AFAIK none of these suggestions are anything more than that and I can legally go out as many times as I like for as long as I like.
Also if I want to practise golf in the local park or go kayaking all day then legally that's OK too. Am I right?
3. What is the legal situation if I am stopped by the police and they want to know where I am going? Do I have to tell them or does my right to remain silent still apply?
4. As far a I can tell there is nothing in the regulations to stop me getting in my car or on my motorbike and having a bimble around the country. Am I right?
John
The contentious parts regarding over zealous policing seem to surround the question of what is and is not legally permitted in term of leaving my abode.
IANAL so I'd value any legal clarification on the law here. I have several questions.
1. What is essential business? If my bike has a puncture can I take it to the local bike shop? Can I go to B&Q to buy supplies for DIY projects? Can I drive to pick up an item bought on eBay assuming I comply with reasonable social distancing measures? Can I buy an easter egg?
2. The way I read the regulations, going out for exercise is OK. Boris said once a day, Gove said an hour walking, 30 minutes running or something in between for cycling. AFAIK none of these suggestions are anything more than that and I can legally go out as many times as I like for as long as I like.
Also if I want to practise golf in the local park or go kayaking all day then legally that's OK too. Am I right?
3. What is the legal situation if I am stopped by the police and they want to know where I am going? Do I have to tell them or does my right to remain silent still apply?
4. As far a I can tell there is nothing in the regulations to stop me getting in my car or on my motorbike and having a bimble around the country. Am I right?
John