THE public will face fines if they don’t wear a mask on public transport in future, Grant Shapps has confirmed.
The Transport Secretary did not say how much they would be, but insisted that people would be refused travel or would have to cough up if they disoeyed the rules.
He announced this evening that people would have to don a mask and cover up when getting on any form of public transport from June 15.
British Transport Police will be enforcing the rules and will be on patrol to make sure people are wearing them.
Mr Shapps said that it would be an England-only rule, but he expects that Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will follow suit.
He told the nation tonight at the Downing Street press conference: “You can be refused travel if you don’t comply and you could be fined.“
The news came as:
- Ministers changed official advice to say that kids under three should not wear a mask
- Nicola Sturgeon said she was considering making it mandatory to wear masks in shops
- Here’s our guide to how to make one at home
- And where you can buy one online
A new nationwide advertising campaign will be rolled out in the coming days so everyone knows the new rules.
The Department of Health said previously that after considering the latest scientific advice from SAGE, face coverings can help reduce the spread of Covid-19.
They stressed that the evidence shows face coverings can stop you passing coronavirus on to others, if you are asymptomatic or have yet to develop symptoms.
Anyone breaking lockdown rules currently faces a £60 fine.
And from Monday anyone breaking mandatory 14-day quarantines when coming into the UK will face a fine of up to £1000.
Priti Patel has confirmed there will be spot checks.
The guidelines state that children under the age of two should not wear masks, nor should anyone who may find it difficult to manage them safely. This includes primary age children and those with respiratory conditions.
The Government also warned that for face coverings to be effective, people must wash their hands before putting them on and taking them off.
Masks aren’t necessary if you’re outside, while exercising, at schools or in offices.
People with breathing difficulties or with young children will not have to wear masks.
