More governmental-level information relevant to our sector for w/e 03 Apr 2020.

Chief Inspector Patrick Holdaway, Police COVID-19 briefing

Talking to the IOC during COVID this week,

The College of Policing and National Police Chiefs Council have produced a briefing in relation to Covid-19, whilst aimed at policing I feel it would be of interest and benefit to fellows business and provide some answers to questions around police powers, particularly in relation to restrictions on movement and gatherings. This updated version is a result of the feedback IOC have been giving me which I have then fed back into policing.

Download brief here and Q&A from DfT here

DfT - Logistics travel in context of COVID

Travel to distribution centres can be treated as essential

Question. Who can travel for work under the existing restrictions? The Government's position remains that everyone who can work from home should do so. Where that is not possible, people should go into work where it is safe and they are not symptomatic, following relevant PHE guidance.

All travel related to the operation of logistics businesses or necessary travel by logistics workers to places of work such as distribution centres to be considered ‘essential travel’ in the context of current restrictions.

Logistics professionals, haulage drivers, managers, warehouse staff, including agency staff, need to continue to go about their business to keep supply chains moving, and government policy is clear that this applies to all supply chains and not only those for food and medical supplies.. At all times workers should however follow Public Health England guidelines on social distancing unless there is a industrial agreement or PHE guidance for that workplace which replaces the general guidance. Employers should be taking responsibility to ensure that PHE guidelines are being followed in their workplaces.

Motorway Service centres to remain open

Question. Should Motorway Service Areas (MSA’s) and Truck Stops continue to remain Open? These facilities should remain open to provide fuel and toilet and shower facilities and take away food services. Public Health England (PHE) have provided guidance on this which can be found here