WITH DEPRESSING FAMILIARITY, MASKS ARE BACK — BUT BORIS WHEELS OUT No10 XMAS MARKET
BORIS Johnson showed there’s still room for plenty of festive cheer yesterday after new rules on maskwearing came into force.
Downing Street was transformed into a Christmas market showcasing British food and drink, but as the stalls were outside there was no need for face coverings.
The Prime Minister did bring some personal protective equipment, however: a bike helmet. His visit came after new curbs to tackle the Omicron variant took effect at 4am, meaning anyone browsing for gifts indoors has to wear a mask.
As well as in shops, the rules apply in taxis and hair salons, post offices and pharmacies.
Masks are also now required on all public transport – with ‘support and enforcement’ staff on the London
Underground greeting passengers on yesterday morning’s commute.
Police have the power to issue £200 fines to those who do not comply with the new rules on face coverings, rising to a maximum of £6,400 for repeat offenders. Ministers hope the restrictions will ensure we can celebrate Christmas properly this year – and pals of the PM could be in for some tasty presents on the 25th. Mr Johnson sampled Snowdonia cheese, Loch Fyne gin and Tayto crisps from Northern Ireland at his (very) local market, telling the assembled crowd: ‘It’s great to see the best of British food and drink here in Downing
Street, especially in the run up to Christmas.’ Others at the event included Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng, Environment Secretary George Eustice and Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan.