Readers react to face mask rules

Chichester readers have had their say on the news that face masks and coverings are set to become mandatory in shops.

People will have to wear them in shops from July 24 or face a £100 fine.

Almost 2,000 people responded to an Observer poll on Facebook, which asked for their views on the policy. Of the 1,900 people who voted, 1,100 people (57 per cent) selected ‘yes, face masks should be mandatory’. Meanwhile, 737 people said ‘no, wearing masks should be a choice’.

People took to the comments to share their views. Kathy Simmonds said: “I think that wearing a mask in shops is the only considerate and sensible thing to do. By not wearing one in shops or on public transport, one is sticking two fingers up to all our efforts during lockdown and to our valiant NHS.”

But Imogen Moo said: “I will be doing all my shopping, eating and drinking at home for the foreseeable future if masks become ‘mandatory’!”

We also spoke to shop owners to find out their thoughts. Kay Mawer, who owns Clothkits in The Hornet, said: “It’s stupid if shoppers have to wear them but staff do not. I must say, in terms of working comfort, to wear one all day long — they are not comfortable and that could be quite unpleasant.

“We have decided to order the clear visors otherwise it would make communication very difficult and it’s not a welcoming atmosphere. [With clear visors] we can protect customers and be protected.”

Lin Boakes, owner of Kim’s Bookshop in South Street, Chichester, said: “I do think it is a good idea and it will give a lot of my customers, especially older ones, more confidence to come out.”

However she said it would put shop owners in a difficult position if they were expected to turn away shoppers not wearing masks.

See our website for a guide to where to buy masks in Chichester.