Full guidance on wearing face coverings in shops in England has been released, less than 12 hours before the new rules come into force.
Care Minister Helen Whately said it would be “inappropriate” for police to be called and the Government strategy would rely on the common sense of Brits to protect each other.
Ms Whately told BBC Breakfast this morning: “We are expecting the vast majority of people to wear face masks.
“As we have seen the vast majority of people have followed the guidance, taken the steps on reducing movement and social distancing.”
Masks are compulsory in shops from today – and people in England can be fined £100 for not wearing one.
Masks were made mandatory in Scotland two weeks ago but only one person has been fined so far.
Ms Whately said while the Government will encourage people to wear one police won’t be sent in where people refuse to comply.
She said: “What we will see, as you see on public transport for instance where there are signs around encouraging you to wear a face mask, saying you should be wearing one.
“There is the option for police, but I really don’t think we will need to go down that line.
“People do take this very seriously, they don’t want to see the Covid rate go up again.
“(We’re) not expecting the police to to be called every time someone isn’t wearing a face mask, that would be inappropriate.”
Despite face masks being made mandatory today, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab posted a snap of himself at a foodbank not covering up.
Great to join Jenny French and her formidable team of local East Elmbridge Foodbank volunteers, alongside @SCCLeader Tim Oliver, in their new Molesey base. They’re doing an amazing job supporting the vulnerable during COVID. pic.twitter.com/nFKHpAsmyA
— Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) July 24, 2020
