The issue of face coverings has been a rather controversial one as the government seeks to get a sense of normality back to the UK.
Earlier this week, senior medics criticised the “illogical” messaging" around face coverings, and expressed fears they could risk the spread of coronavirus.
The British Medical Association (BMA) said a second peak of Covid-19, combined with a seasonal outbreak of flu, could be “devastating for the NHS” and voiced criticism of government guidance on the use of face coverings.
Face coverings are already compulsory on public transport in England, and the government has made it mandatory to wear them in shops and supermarkets from July 24 to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
This means masks must be worn in shops and supermarkets from this Friday. People who refuse to comply will be refused entry to shops or risk being ejected.
But for those people in pubs or sandwich shops, the masks are not mandatory.
A protest took place in London at the weekend with hundreds of people opposing the wearing of face masks gathering in Hyde Park.
Any type of face covering is acceptable - whether it is shop bought or home made. The key thing is it must cover your mouth and nose to be effective.
All the places you need to wear a face covering
- On public transport
- In hospital if you are a visitor or an outpatient
And, as of July 24:
- All shops and supermarkets
Official guidance says people should also wear a face covering in any enclosed public spaces where social distancing is not possible.
Can I get fined for not wearing one?
Yes.
You could risk a £100 fine if you are caught inside a shop without a covering once the new rule comes into force.
The fine will be reduced to £50 if it is paid within 14 days.
Different rules also apply in Scotland.
In enclosed spaces, where physical distancing is more difficult and where there is a risk of close contact with multiple people who are not members of your household, you should wear a face covering, the Scottish government says.
People must by law wear a face covering in shops and on public transport and public transport premises such as railway and bus stations and airports. This applies to open-air railway platforms, but not to bus stops.
The Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, said shop workers can phone the police as 'a last resort' if people refuse to wear masks.
