Military could take on police duties so officers can focus on coronavirus restrictions

The military will be able to help fulfill certain police duties while officers enforce rules imposed during the coronavirus pandemic, Downing Street has said.

By PA

Published 22nd Sep 2020, 14:00 BST

Updated 22nd Sep 2020, 14:04 BST

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They could take over work such as office roles and guarding protected sights to free up officers, but would not be granted "additional powers".

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “To further free up the police to have a greater presence on our streets they will have the option to draw on military support, where required, using tried and tested mechanisms.

“This would involve the military back-filling certain duties, such as office roles and guarding protected sites, so police officers can be out enforcing the virus response.

It could free up police officers to deal with the pandemic

“This is not about providing any additional powers to the military, or them replacing the police in enforcement roles, and they will not be handing out fines. It is about freeing up more police officers.”