Police Chiefs Outraged as Government Snubs Officers on Covid Vaccines
Leicestershire Police Federation Chairman Adam Commons has slammed the Government’s decision to delay Covid vaccines for police officers. He called it “despicable” and branded ministers the “party of Chaos and Confusion.”
‘We Can’t Police From 2 Metres Away’
Commons hit out at the vaccination snub, pointing to the frontline risks officers face every day. “The Government claim stopping the virus is key to getting the country back to normal, yet they ignore the needs of my hardworking colleagues to get vaccinated,” he said.
“I will keep saying this – we cannot police at a 2-metre distance. By ignoring our nation’s protectors, they’re putting brave officers and their families at risk.”
National Police Chair: ‘Complete Betrayal of Officers’
John Apter, Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, joined the criticism. “This announcement shows a complete lack of understanding about policing this pandemic and is an utter betrayal of police officers,” he said.
“Officers have been on the frontline since day one, risking infection and even death to keep the public safe. We never said police should jump the queue; we just wanted them prioritised.”
Police Forced to Risk It All Without Protection
Apter highlighted the unpredictable nature of policing that makes social distancing impossible. “Officers go into homes, hospitals, and get up close when helping people or making arrests. Many are falling ill or self-isolating, leaving dangerously low numbers on the beat.”
He added: “Yet the Government hides behind JCVI science, ignoring the moral duty to protect officers and their families. Vaccinating police would shield them and help stop the spread across communities.
“We’re sick of warm words and no action. We will now explore every possible avenue to protect our members against this deadly virus and demand this complacent government do better.”
