How much are Covid fixed penalty notice fines?

Since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, more than 85,000 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) have been issued to people who broke lockdown rules. On Tuesday (12 April) Prime Minister Boris Johnson, his wife Carrie Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak became the latest people to be hit with a FPN.

It comes as police investigating allegations of lockdown-breaking parties held in Downing Street and Whitehall said they have now made more than 50 referrals for fines. A No 10 spokeswoman said: “The Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer have today received notification that the Metropolitan police intend to issue them with fixed penalty notices.

“We have no further details, but we will update you again when we do.”

Read more: Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak issued fines over Downing Street parties

The Met Police is investigating 12 events, including as many as six that Mr Johnson is said to have attended, and has sent out more than 100 questionnaires to people allegedly involved. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Johnson "has presided over widespread criminality in his home and his office" and called for the names of all senior officials fined for Downing Street parties to be made public.

He has also called for Mr Johnson and Mr Sunak to resign, adding: "“Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak have broken the law and repeatedly lied to the British public."

But how much are Covid FPNs? It depends on the size of the 'party' and how many FNPs have already been served. According to the National Police Chiefs' Council, as of June 2021, fines of £10,000 are issued for 'large gatherings.'

Large gatherings 'include' but aren't 'limited to,' unlicensed music events, protests and private parties. Meanwhile, participating in a gathering of 'more than 15 people' would result in an £800 fine.

However, according to the The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations 2020, FNPs could start out at £100 but might rise to as high as £6,400 depending on how many previous FNPs have been issued.

However, it still isn't known how much Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak or any of the other individuals issued with fixed penalty notices have been fined.