The government has still not decided if Brits will be told to cover their faces in public - despite Boris Johnson's surprise comments to the nation.
The Prime Minister last night declared face coverings will be a "useful" tool for coming out of lockdown - and more will be announced next week.
But today his official spokesman insisted there has still been no formal decision, more than a week after ministers received scientific advice.
The spokesman said: “What he was doing was pointing out what the advice from the experts says.
“Ministers are still considering how we move forwards with face coverings in terms of the precise advice we give to the public.
“Once that’s ready, we’ll announce it. I don’t think the Prime Minister was pre-empting a decision.”
Despite the spokesman insisting no decision has been made, it is thought Mr Johnson's comments follow the broad outline of the government's plan.
It's understood officials are adamant they will not advise the public to wear medical masks - because that could lead to shortages in the NHS and care homes.
However, they are looking at advising the public to wear other face coverings such as scarves.
It is understood officials are looking at issuing guidance to the public next week on exactly what material can and cannot be used as a face covering.
It's also understood officials are not considering using face coverings to reduce the 2-metre minimum distance for social distancing.
This suggests they would not be used as a reason to allow more people at a time on public transport and in shops.
The PM has promised a "comprehensive" plan setting out more of what easing lockdown will look like - with advice for schools, outdoor workers and offices.
Details are only expected to be officially announced next Thursday.
A scientific committee known as NERVTAG reported to the government last week on whether the UK should follow other countries - and advise people to cover their faces in public.
Surgical masks and other face coverings are not thought to be effective at stopping coronavirus getting into your system - but could stop you passing it to others.
The committee's advice showed a "weak but positive effect" in reducing transmission of Covid-19, if face coverings are worn by asymptomatic carriers.
However, there is also a worry that people could fidget with their covering, thereby touching their faces more, or feel safe and then act in a more cavalier way.
A No10 spokesman said: “What ministers need to consider is how best to produce advice for the public on next steps. That work is still ongoing.”
Mr Johnson made the comments as he returned to the daily No10 press conference for the first time in a month.
He said: "What I think SAGE is saying, and what I certainly agree with is that as part of coming out of the lockdown, I do think that face coverings will be useful both for epidemiological reasons but also for giving people confidence they can go back to work.
"But you'll be hearing more about that thing next week."
Government officials stressed the most important thing was not whether people cover their faces - but sticking to the social distancing measures, covering or not.
However, Scotland has already advised its citizens to cover their faces in some situations in public.
