To check Covid spread, face masks now compulsory in UK shops, supermarkets

Face coverings will not be made mandatory in places that have measures in place to protect staff and the public, says government.

Face coverings must be worn in shops, supermarkets, indoor shopping centres and transport hubs such as train stations and airports in England from Friday as part of the next stage of the government's official guidance to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Under the new regulations, members of the public will need to wear face coverings such as a fabric covering, scarf or bandana that cover the nose and mouth in additional enclosed public spaces, as announced by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson earlier this month.

It will be compulsory to wear face-covering when buying food and drink to take away