Covid: as rules on mask wearing in England return, what exactly is the law?

From Tuesday, people will have to wear masks under new measures, but where and how will this be policed?

• Coronavirus – latest updates
• See all our coronavirus coverage

As part of targeted measures to prevent the spread of the new Covid-19 variant Omicron, from 4am on 30 November, people in England will be required by law to wear a face covering in certain places.

The measure will be introduced as a precaution while more information is gathered and assessed on the variant’s transmissibility and any possible effect on Covid-19 vaccines, Downing Street said.

Face coverings are compulsory in shops and settings such as banks, post offices and hairdressers, as well as on public transport, unless individuals are exempt. Hospitality settings are excluded from the rules, except takeaways that do not offer consumption of food or drinks on the premises.

Boris Johnson said: “The measures taking effect today are proportionate and responsible, and will buy us time in the face of this new variant. Based on everything we know, our vaccines and boosters remain our best line of defence, so it is more important than ever that people come forward when eligible to get boosted.

“Not only will today’s steps help us slow down the variant’s spread, but they will help us protect each other and the gains we have all worked so hard for.”

All public transport, including taxis and private hire vehicles, and transport hubs (airports, rail and tram stations and terminals.
maritime ports and terminals, bus and coach stations and terminals)

Shops and supermarkets and generally places that offer goods or services for retail sale or hire, enclosed shopping centres and indoor markets.

Takeaways without space for consumption of food or drink on the premises.

Premises providing personal care and beauty treatments such as hair salons, barbers, nail salons, massage centres, tattoo and piercing studios.

Auction houses and retail galleries.

Post offices.

Banks, building societies, high-street solicitors and accountants, credit unions, short-term loan providers, savings clubs and money service businesses.

Estate and lettings agents and retail travel agents.

Pharmacies.

Vets.

Continue reading…

Source link