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LONDON: Face masks will become compulsory in shops and supermarkets in England from next week, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Tuesday, marking a U-turn on previous policy.
The new legislation will come into force in England on July 24, Hancock told parliament after weeks of wrangling from ministers about their effectiveness.
“We want to give people more confidence to shop safely and enhance protections for those who work in shops,” Hancock told MPs.
“Both of these can be done by the use of face coverings.” The move brings England into line with Scotland, and several other European countries which are gradually reopening after lengthy periods locked down.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who spent several days battling COVID-19 in intensive care, said the measure was “extra insurance” against the spread of the virus. (AFP)
The new legislation will come into force in England on July 24, Hancock told parliament after weeks of wrangling from ministers about their effectiveness.
“We want to give people more confidence to shop safely and enhance protections for those who work in shops,” Hancock told MPs.
“Both of these can be done by the use of face coverings.” The move brings England into line with Scotland, and several other European countries which are gradually reopening after lengthy periods locked down.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who spent several days battling COVID-19 in intensive care, said the measure was “extra insurance” against the spread of the virus. (AFP)
