Thread by @uk_domain_names

The Coronavirus Bill runs to 321 pages of legalese. Gives the UK Government unprecedented powers to do all sorts of things it normally couldn't. (Initially for a 2-year period, but can also be extended.) Have a read...
publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/cbill…

The explanatory notes are definitely a more approachable read...
publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/cbill…

Now, I accept that the Government needs to act faster and more decisively. It may not be able to do so with the powers it has now. But that doesn't mean that it should give itself Unlimited Power (bwahaha!)

Some things in the Bill:
- Lower number of doctors' opinions needed to detain/treat patients on mental health grounds
- in some cases, doctors can certify cause of death without seeing deceased
- get investigatory powers warrants up to 3 days retrospectively, not in advance

- power to compel food industry to disclose information about supplies
- no need for a coroner inquest if there is "reason to suspect the death was caused by covid-19"

- power to suspend port operations, or direct arrivals to other ports (criminal offence if do not comply)
- powers to detain people suspected of being infected, or returning them to where they came from
- power to prohibit or restrict gatherings and close premises

- authorise use of video/audio links in court cases
- powers to direct the "death management industry" in such a way that it's not overwhelmed by coronavirus victims