Police will issue £800 fines to those who are caught attending large gatherings, such as house parties, from next week, the Home Secretary has announced.
The new, larger fine will apply to those who are found in groups of more than 15 and will double every time individuals are caught, up to maximum of £6,400.
The measures are aimed at those who are simply showing no respect for the law and the restrictions in place to help protect the NHS and save lives.
It comes as the government appears to be losing control of the population who are seemingly less compliant to the latest lockdown restrictions following 10 months of the pandemic so far.
“They’re dangerous, irresponsible and totally unacceptable and I hope that the likelihood of an increased fine acts as a disincentive for those people who are thinking of attending or organising such events.”