LANCASHIRE Constabulary bosses are reviewing the guidance they give their officers on how to police the coronavirus lockdown following Boris Johnson’s relaxing of stay at home measures.

It comes as the county’s crime tsar has criticised the Prime Minister for what he says was an unclear message which has caused confusion across Lancashire and made the challenge of policing ever greater.

Clive Grunshaw said not only was there a lack of clear guidance for the public, but also for the police’s role and responsibilities.

The Labour police and crime commissioner said: “People have now been on lockdown for over seven weeks, some people even longer. The public of Lancashire have been hugely supportive of the efforts to control this virus but as we move into the next phase, confusion is rife.

“Whilst we must all take collective responsibility and the onus is now on individuals to make the right decisions, more clarity is needed from Government to ensure people can continue to play their part to reduce the spread of this virus and importantly understand when to call police with any concerns about people flouting the rules and putting others at risk.

“Lancashire Police, like forces up and down the country are still working through the detail of the announcement alongside the College of Policing and the Home Office to understand what changes there will be to legislation and therefore enforcement.

“However, Lancashire will continue to police by consent and take a common sense approach using the Four E approach, to engage, explain, encourage and enforce as a last resort.

“The focus will be on policing large gatherings; barbecues and house parties as people are given more freedom to move around the county. Whilst fines will be increased as a deterrent to reflect the increase in the risk of others of breaking the rules, these will continue to be used proportionately.

“The priority in all of this is to keep people safe – and that means continuing to stay home where possible and maintain social distancing when you’re out. We must not lose sight that we all still have our part to play to support the NHS and save lives.”

Among the changes to lockdown guidelines announced by Mr Johnson on Sunday were that residents could meet one person from outside their own household in a park, if they stay two metres apart. People will also now be able to drive to parks, beaches and countryside in England as long as they observe social distancing while there.

However, Mr Johnson did say that minimum fines for people caught breaking the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 will go up from £60 to £100. Fines will be doubled for each offence an individual commits, up to a total of £3,200.

Earlier this month it was revealed Lancashire Police had issued 633 fixed notices – the third most in the country – having logged nearly 9,000 complaints about people flouting lockdown guidelines

A force spokesman said: “We are working through the detail but as more details become clear, working closely with the College of Policing and the Home Office, we will review our current guidance, which supports officers and staff in policing the public health regulations. The core British principle of policing by consent will continue to be at the heart of our approach.”