The recommendations stress the importance of clearly distinguishing between legal requirements and public health advice in government communication.

Ambiguity in government messaging has led to enforcement challenges for police, who struggle to differentiate between enforceable laws and non-binding advice.

The Independent Commission on UK Public Health Emergency Powers, chaired by Rt. Hon. Sir Jack Beatson FBA, conducted a review of the UK's Covid-19 response and emergency powers framework.

Some witnesses advocated for legal mandates during pandemics, highlighting the public's desire for clarity and certainty in serious health matters.

Witnesses generally agreed that both legislation and non-binding advice are essential during public health emergencies, depending on the specific context.

The Commission recommended that any guidance relevant to public health legislation should have a clear statutory basis and be subjected to legislative scrutiny.

Public health professionals expressed a preference for non-coercive public health advice over legal mandates, advocating for effective communication and community engagement.

To ensure clarity and compliance, the development of implementation guidance for frontline professionals should involve collaboration with legal experts.

In its report, published in spring 2024, the Commission outlined 44 recommendations aimed at reforming laws, policies, and practices related to public health emergencies.

Among its key recommendations, the Commission emphasized the need for careful judgment in determining the legal foundations for restrictions during public health emergencies.

The Commission noted that the UK government often blurred the lines between legal obligations and public health guidance, which undermined the rule of law and created confusion in enforcement.

Research indicated that public compliance is significantly influenced by the perceived legal status of rules, with individuals more likely to adhere to measures seen as law rather than mere guidance.