Face masks may become mandatory in Scotland says Nicola Sturgeon

Face coverings could become mandatory in shops and public transport to drive down the spread of Coronavirus, Nicola Sturgeon has said.

The First Minister is considering making the measure compulsory as anecdotal evidence suggests many Scots are disregarding guidance to wear them in enclosed public spaces.

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The SNP leader again appealed to the public to wear "homemade" masks where appropriate, but warned she may have to adopt a tougher line.

Students wearing face masks on a campus in York.Students wearing face masks on a campus in York.
Students wearing face masks on a campus in York.
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Asked today if she was considering making them mandatory, Ms Sturgeon said; "Yes it is under consideration.

"I said when I announced the policy some weeks back that we would keep this under review, so we haven't reached a final decision on this.

"But I think it is fair to say that it is something we are considering and I think that is inevitable.

"I understand why some people may not want to wear face coverings, it's not the most comfortable thing to do."

Nicola Sturgeon says face masks may become mandatory in enclosed spacesNicola Sturgeon says face masks may become mandatory in enclosed spaces
Nicola Sturgeon says face masks may become mandatory in enclosed spaces

Ms Sturgeon said there was "some evidence" that wearing a face covering in enclosed spaces, where physical distancing is more difficult, can protect other people if the wearer is infected.

"I really want to strongly encourage people if you haven't already been doing it, or if you have started to do it and found it uncomfortable and haven't continued, please consider this very carefully.

"We want to ensure we are doing everything we can to reduce the risks of transmission."

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Joy Yates

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