Union warns of ‘second spike’ risk

A second spike in Covid-19 infections is becoming “every more likely” due to reported non-compliance with face covering and social distancing rules on public transport, says Unite.

It called for decisive action after transport secretary Grant Shapps announced that bus and rail timetables would return to 85% of normal services.

“Unite members are increasingly reporting the rules on face coverings and social distancing on public transport, especially buses, are being flouted,” said Unite national officer Bobby Morton. “The danger of a second spike will be greatly increased unless decisive action is taken to ensure the rules are followed.”

“It is not the role of bus drivers, nor do they have the power, to prevent someone without a face covering from boarding a bus,” he added. “The failure of bus operators and the police to deal with this increasing problem is potentially risking the health of bus workers and passengers, and could have disastrous consequences for the nation’s public health.”

https://unitetheunion.org/news-events/news/2020/june/danger-of-second-spike-if-no-action-on-public-transport-to-enforce-face-coverings-and-social-distancing