Covid-19: Professor did not break lockdown rules, say police

Prof Boyne has been principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Aberdeen since August 2018

The vice-chancellor of a Scottish university did not break rules when he visited part of south Wales under lockdown, police have said.

University of Aberdeen's Prof George Boyne apologised for any concern after a trip to the Vale of Glamorgan to see a consultant for a health matter.

South Wales Police investigated and said Prof Boyne's reasons were "legitimate".

The force said it was a "reasonable excuse" for entering the area.

Under Welsh Government restrictions no one can currently enter or leave the Vale of Glamorgan - which is under local lockdown - without "reasonable excuse".

Exemptions include to seek medical assistance.

• What can I do during local lockdowns?

• What do the latest lockdown rules mean?

Student newspaper The Gaudie had said his actions were in "stark contrast" with university rules which threaten "robust action" for those breaking Covid rules.

Aberdeen University has had 122 positive coronavirus cases within the student population

In a previous statement, Prof Boyne said: "On Friday I travelled down to Wales for a private health matter, to see a consultant I have been seeing for some time.

"For the purposes of the visit I have been staying at our house in Wales which is occupied by our son.

"As I have reduced immunity, it felt like the safest option to be in our house, rather than in a hotel.

"It has been suggested to me that this may be not be in line with local guidance. I sincerely apologise for any concern this may cause."

Prof Boyne said he had informed the senior governor of the University of Aberdeen.

'Legitimate reason'

South Wales Police said it was investigating, but in a statement on Tuesday night said it would be "taking no further action".

"We are now satisfied that his reasons for visiting the area are legitimate and are what would be considered a 'reasonable excuse' under Welsh Government guidance," the force said.

"Prof Boyne has been suitably advised and no further action will be taken."

What has the university said?

Esther Robertson, senior governor at the university, said she has met with members of the University Court and "briefed them on the circumstances and received their feedback. The matter is still under consideration".

Before taking the role in Aberdeen, Prof Boyne had been pro vice-chancellor and head of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at Cardiff University since 2012.