Face coverings will be mandatory in shops and supermarkets: here are the rules

People who do not obey the new rules, which come into force in England on July 24, will face fines.

At the weekend Michael Gove said that the public could be trusted to use their "common sense" when deciding whether to wear a face covering or not. Days later the Government announced its change of stance.

Here is what you need to know about the new rules.

- When does the law come into force?

The law comes into force on July 24. You must have your nose and mouth covered when you enter shops and supermarkets. Those who disobey the rule could face fines of up to £100.

These fines can be reduced to £50 if they are paid within two weeks.

Although they will be encouraged to make sure people follow the rules, shop owners will not have the ability to hand out these fines. That will be up to the police.

- Why are we being told to wear face coverings almost four months after we went into lockdown?

The late adoption of the mandatory face covering rule has caused many to question why now and not before, when the infection rate was higher.

The Government guidance explains that face coverings do not protect the wearer, however they do protect others from germs the spread should the wearer cough or sneeze, or be carrying the disease without having developed symptoms.

Some Government advisers have also warned that face coverings can give people a false sense of security, distract people form important hand hygiene and that some home-made ones can be ineffective.

Wearing face coverings incorrectly, or reusing dirty ones, can also increase the risk of the disease spreading.

- What can I use as a face covering?

Face coverings are not the same as face masks. They can be made from scarves and other fabric items like bandanas. It is important that they cover both the mouth and nose.

There are videos on Youtube which teach you how to make a mask that follows the guidelines and works properly.

- What about surgical face masks and visors?

The surgical-grade PPE have been kept for health workers, and the public are not being asked to wear this.

- Who does not have to wear a face covering in England following the rules coming into force?

There are a few exceptions to the new rules about face coverings in supermarkets and shops.

Children under 11 and people with certain disabilities and breathing conditions will not have to wear the coverings.

Other places where most people will have to wear masks include all public transport as well as all hospital visitors and outpatients in England.

People in England should also wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where it is not possible to social distance.

- What are the rules for the rest of the UK?

In Scotland face coverings have been compulsory in shops from July 10 and on public transport from June 22.

Northern Ireland made them mandatory on public transport on July 10. It has not yet made a decision on shops.

Face coverings are advised in Wales in situations "where social distancing is not possible". From July 27 they will also be mandatory on public transport.

The Government in Wales has also specified any face covering should be made up of three layers of cloth.

- If I develop Covid-19 symptoms, can I still go out if I wear a mask or covering?

No. People with symptoms and their household must stay at home and self-isolate.