Halifax shoppers must wear a face mask

Wearing a face mask or covering will become mandatory in all UK shops and supermarkets as of July 24.

The Government has said that shoppers that refuse to wear a mask face a fine of up to £100.

Children under 11 and those with certain disabilities will be exempt from wearing a mask.

A No 10 spokesman said: “There is growing evidence that wearing a face covering in an enclosed space helps protect individuals and those around them from coronavirus.

“The prime minister has been clear that people should be wearing face coverings in shops and we will make this mandatory from 24 July.”

It has been compulsory for commuters to wear a mask on public transport since June 15.

Labour has criticised the Government’s stance on facemasks, saying ministers had been “slow and muddled.” They also questioned why the new rules would not be enforced until eleven days after the initial announcement.

Dr Steven Cleasby, Clinical Chair of NHs Calderdale CCG said: “Face coverings can help to reduce the risk of passing coronavirus on to others, even if you have the virus but aren’t showing symptoms. Wearing them in shops, on public transport, and anywhere else you’re unable to maintain a distance of two metres from other people can help to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

"We’re still living through a pandemic and the NHS is preparing for a very difficult winter due to coronavirus, as well as other common winter conditions like coughs and colds, and seasonal flu. Wearing face coverings can help reduce the risk of passing on all of these to other people.

"It’s a small thing to do but it can have a big impact. Face coverings can be homemade, made of cloth, and be reusable, but please wash them regularly with the rest of your laundry. Wearing masks is important, but it’s still vital that you wash your hand regularly, for 20 seconds with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

"If you, or someone you live with develops any symptoms of coronavirus (a high temperature, a new continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste), please follow the advice at www.nhs.uk, self-isolate and get tested as soon as you can."