Nicola Sturgeon announces date when face masks will be mandatory in shops

Wearing face coverings will become mandatory in shops in Scotland from July 10, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "Face coverings in shops will be compulsory from the end of next week but please don't wait until then, get into the habit now."

Nicola Sturgeon wears a face mask for the visit to a New Look store at Fort Kinnaird, Edinburgh. Pictures: Jeff Mitchell/Getty

Speaking during the Scottish Government's daily coronavirus briefing, Ms Sturgeon said as people start to interact more it is "vital we take steps to reduce risks".

On social distancing measures, she said sticking to the two-metre rule has "serious economic implications".

From the end of next week, exceptions would be allowed for specific sectors to operate within a one-metre distance with mitigation measures.

These sectors include hospitality, retail and public transport.

But the general rule in law will be that businesses must take reasonable measures to ensure two-metre distancing is maintained, she said.

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