Face coverings compulsory on public transport in England from 15 June
Alec Fenn
Europe;United Kingdom
01:05

UK transport secretary Grant Shapps has revealed that face coverings will be compulsory on public transport in England from 15 June – and that people could be fined if they don't comply.

Ministers have previously been sceptical about the benefits of face masks in preventing the transmission of COVID-19 but have now followed other European countries in making them mandatory.

In May, Spain enforced the use of face masks indoors and outdoors in situations where social distancing isn't possible, while Germany made them compulsory on all forms of public transport back in April. 

A range of masks will be permissible in the UK, with people urged to make their own at home rather than purchasing surgical masks, which the government wants to reserve for frontline healthcare workers.

 

Face coverings will be compulsory on public transport in England from 15 June and people could be fined if they refuse to comply. /AP

Face coverings will be compulsory on public transport in England from 15 June and people could be fined if they refuse to comply. /AP

A range of masks will be permissible in the UK, with people urged to make their own at home rather than purchasing surgical masks, which the government wants to reserve for frontline healthcare workers
 -  UK government advice

"As of Monday 15 June, face coverings will become mandatory on public transport," said Shapps. "That doesn't mean surgical masks: we must keep them for clinical settings. It means the kind of face covering you can make at home. There will be exceptions for young people, disabled people and very young children, and people with breathing difficulties."

The number of people using public transport is expected to gradually increase over the coming weeks after non-essential businesses were given the green light to reopen from 15 June, and Shapps says he hopes the new rule will help to keep people safe.

He added: "Evidence shows face coverings offers some, if limited, protection from transmitting the virus. Face coverings helps protect our fellow passengers, it's something we can do to help each other. Maintaining social distancing and washing hands remains critical."

 

UK transport secretary Grant Shapps also revealed that people could be fined or refused travel if they don't comply with the new rules./AP

UK transport secretary Grant Shapps also revealed that people could be fined or refused travel if they don't comply with the new rules./AP

 

Staff working in the transport sector will also be required to wear face coverings, while they will also be given the power to refuse travel to anyone who attempts to use services without one.

Shapps said: "When more people return to the network they will be required to wear face coverings on transport network. This will mean you can be refused travel if you don't comply and you could be fined. 

Read more: The Respirator - the face mask worn by the Victorians

"Frontline staff, those in contact with passengers, will also need to wear face coverings. The government will work with the unions and transport operators and police to make sure they have the necessary supplies."

Check out The Pandemic Playbook, CGTN Europe's major investigation into the lessons learned from COVID-19