SINCE the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, face coverings and masks have become ubiquitous in some countries, but the UK has generally been more reluctant to adopt them. This week, the law in England is changing. What are the new rules? People will have to wear face coverings inside shops and supermarkets in England from 24 July, unless they have certain disabilities or are under the age of 11. They already have to wear coverings while using public transport and in hospitals. Although store workers aren't expected to enforce the rule, people who break it could face a fine of up to £100 if police get involved. This brings England more into line with restrictions in Scotland and many other European countries. Weren't face coverings supposed to not do much good? At the start of the pandemic, many scientists said there wasn't enough evidence to support their use. There were concerns they could encourage people to take risks such as getting closer to others, and as masks still let in some virus, overall exposure could increase. There were also fears that the public would buy medical-grade masks when hospitals were going short.
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