Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has revealed that coronavirus masks are being stockpiled for the public by the UK Government.
Appearing on Sky News, the Defence Secretary said the UK Government are trying " to source as many masks" as they can.
It comes as First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon backed the idea of Scots using face coverings when out in public last week.
Speaking to Sky News Ben Wallace said: "We are in the business as we speak of sourcing as many masks as possible."
He also spoke about how masks may be a way of helping Brits "feel confident enough to go back to work."
The defence secretary added "One of the things about masks is do masks give people confidence? Is it a confidence-building measure wearing masks or is it about a magic bullet of science that says if you wear one you won't catch it or give it to someone?
"I think that latter argument is not as strong, it's not the amazing thing that if you wear a mask no one is going to get it
"But obviously there is this issue about human nature and interaction if you go on public transport and wear a mask, will you feel confident enough to go back to work?"
Nicola Sturgeon previously backed the idea of wearing a mask commenting:"What I don't want is people thinking they are invincible to the virus because they are wearing a face mask.
"You shouldn't think it gives you license to do the things the rules tell you you shouldn't be doing.
"This guidance may well evolve and develop. We are not making it mandatory just now."
She said they could work well when people are in enclosed spaces with other people and situations where "it's not easy to keep the two metres distance."
