Shoppers must wear face masks from today

NEW laws will see shoppers forced to wear face masks from today – even if they are ordering a takeaway.

Coverings will be mandatory in enclosed public spaces including supermarkets, indoor shopping centres, transport hubs, banks and post offices.

Those who fail to wear a covering could be fined £100.

Enforcement in England will be the responsibility of the police but police chiefs warned overstretched officers should be involved only as a “last resort”.

The regulations now mean covering up when visiting outlets including Pret a Manger, McDonald’s, Nando’s and Costa.

However the rules, drawn up by health ministers, say they can be removed in a seating area.

Face coverings will not be mandatory in places such as restaurants and pubs, hairdressers, gyms, leisure centres, cinemas, concert halls and theatres.

Sainsbury’s said they would not challenge customers without a mask.

People with breathing problems will not be required to wear a covering and Public Health England has said it is not compulsory for youngsters aged between three and 11. Those under three should not wear them at all.

Wearing a face mask on public transport has been mandatory in England since June 15.

Lord O’Donnell, former head of the civil service, said more clarity was needed.

He said: “If anyone knows what the clear message on masks is, please tell me.”

There were mixed messages earlier this month when Michael Gove caused outcry by visiting a takeaway without a mask – and a week later wearing one.

And union leaders voiced fears that the new rules could put workers’ safety at risk and called the Government’s advice “confusing”.

Unison official Jon Richards said: “Government guidance has been confusing from the start… and now people don’t know what they should do.

“There are rules for shops and public transport, but not for other enclosed spaces such as libraries, register offices and civic centres.”