Face coverings mandatory in shops, supermarkets, shopping centres and enclosed transport hubs from today

Face coverings must be worn in additional enclosed public spaces from today, Friday 24 July in England, as the government takes further steps to help curb the spread of the virus.

Under the new regulations laid today, members of the public will need to wear face coverings – for example, a fabric covering, scarf or bandana – that covers the nose and mouth in additional enclosed public spaces, as well as frequent hand washing and careful social distancing.

It will be compulsory to wear a face covering when buying food and drink to take away from cafes and shops. If you are in a premises where you are able to sit down and consume food or drink that you have bought, then you can remove your face covering in order to eat and drink on-site.

Face coverings will not be mandatory for:

• anyone under the age of 11
• those with disabilities or certain health conditions, such as respiratory or cognitive impairments that make it difficult for them to wear a face covering

For further information, please visit the GOV.UK website here.