Experts are 'finalising' advice to ministers on whether people should wear masks on public transport and at work - and it will be presented to ministers "shortly".
Number 10 confirmed the SAGE advisory group met yesterday to discuss whether to change the UK’s guidance on the general public wearing masks.
It follows reports that experts were recommending face coverings - such as cloth masks or scarves - could stop people with the disease but without symptoms from passing it on to others.
The Prime Minister's spokesman said: "[SAGE] did meet yesterday to look at further evidence relating to the effectiveness of masks in preventing the transmission of the disease. They're now finalising their advice and it will be presented to ministers shortly.
"Once ministers have looked at it and made a decision we will publicly announce what that is."
He added: "I can't comment on what SAGE's advice to ministers is.
"Once ministers have considered it we'll announce what the way forward is going to be."
The advice reportedly suggests recommending people wear 'face coverings', which could include scarves or cloth masks, in a bid to avoid worsening the shortage of protective equipment going to the NHS.
A Whitehall source told The Sun: "No decision is going to be made which would take medical masks away from the NHS.
"Everybody is very clear on that."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said last night: “On the use of facemasks we are advised by the science and we listen to what the scientists say.
"There was a meeting of SAGE... I look forward to hearing from that and then ministers making decisions based on the science."
The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) holds meetings to discuss the Covid-19 pandemic and then advises ministers.
Sage has become active to advise on the UK Government's response to the coronavirus pandemic - with ministers repeatedly saying their decisions are based on “the science.”
But Number 10 has refused to name the scientists who make up the committee.
And the minutes of their meetings, which have been published during previous medical emergencies, have not been made public.
It’s thought the continued issues with supplies of protective equipment to the NHS could play a part in the decision.
Chris Hobson, the chief exec of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts, told the Sun: "Securing the supply of masks, when there is huge global demand, is crucial. This must be a key consideration.
"If the Government is going to consider advising the general public to wear facemasks it must fully assess the impact on the NHS."
