The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “I am pleased the Government have finally listened - not just to me - but to the clear overwhelming expert scientific advice from the World Health Organisation, Royal Society, British Medical Association and others, who have echoed my calls for face coverings to be mandatory in enclosed and busy public places such as shops.
“It’s a disgrace that there’s been days of mixed messages and confused communications from ministers. Time and time again this government have been slow to act and unclear in their advice and as a result the public’s health that’s been placed at risk as a result. We can’t afford to wait another day and the Government should bring this policy in immediately – further delay risks lives.”