The Realist wrote:

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What makes me really MAD is that everyone talks about the restrictions but hardly anyone, even in government, talks about ENFORCEMENT.  I recall Bob In Spain talking about the draconian fines imposed on those flouting the rules there; if only there had been a similar crackdown here. It wouldn't have solved the problem  - covid cases are surging again in Spain as they are here - but strict enforcement would probably have led to less infections and less deaths, and less effect on the economy

We keep hearing about large numbers of house parties etc but hardly any fines being imposed - then they fine some students for breaching the rules but don't even investigate the rugby barbarians - Cummings gets away with his trip to Durham; Piers Corbyn is supposed to be holding one of his freedom rallies in Stroud this weekend - will he be arrested? probably not

 I really wish there was consistent rigorous enforcement of the rules against anyone and everyone who doesn't comply  - then maybe we would have a  better chance of getting back to a normal life and playing tennis etc, and most important, saving lives - sorry, rant over!

 

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 Really tricky - I agree in theory but it's far better if you can get compliance because people agree with you and understand what you're trying to achieve than just because of strict fines and penalties - there will never be enough police etc to truly enforce it, so you need the public will to be behind you. 

I know it's not really comparable but speaking to my son in Japan is very interesting - no lockdown as such, no police presence and enforcement and yet extremely high compliance with social distancing, masks, etc., and - surprise, surprise - a pretty good outcome. 

Just a little thing but, having travelled back to the UK, and having done quarantine, nobody contacts you. I don't mean to chase and threaten and control you. 

But you don't even get an SMS saying: 

"well done, keep going, I know it's hard but every day you're keeping to your quarantine, you're helping bring the infections down......"

Yes, maybe it would be a bit 'blah-blah', but the fact they can't even be bothered to generate an automatic text to be helpful and supportive makes you think, stuff them. 

The government doesn't seem to understand basic psychology. They need to get people on side. Not alienate everyone with constant daft changes, ultra strict laws but nice rules for them at Westminster.