Picking Sides

I think it’s pretty clear that UK police forces interpreted lockdown instructions differently and that some were (initially, at least) a little over zealous in carrying out their policies. But it also seems illogical for the government to allow the people one piece of exercise per day, then close numerous parks but still request everyone maintain social distancing. I cannot subscribe to this brand of authoritarianism.

Yet I find it difficult to take a side against the authorities. Because I have a complete lack of faith in Joe Public to do the right thing. Every day I see examples in the news, and examples on my own walks, of a sizeable section of the community doing the very opposite of ‘the right thing’. Sure, most people are sensible. But ‘most’ isn’t enough in a pandemic. I’ll be hugely disappointed but entirely unsurprised when the government decides to enforce a complete house-bound lockdown.

I also feel more justified in my loathing for runners today. France and Spain have banned the deadly practice of jogging on health grounds. It seemed obvious to me from the start, that allowing hordes of unfit oafs to go and hyperventilate over everyone was not a great idea.