From today, constituents must wear a face covering by law when using public transport, indoor transport hubs, shops and supermarkets, indoor shopping centres, banks, building societies and post offices.

The government is following scientific guidance to ensure that steps are taken to ensure that people are able to go about their business as safely as possible. While I understand that the science in this area has evolved during the outbreak, the body of scientific evidence that has built up shows that the risk of transmission is made lower by wearing a face covering.

I believe that it is vital to balance the need to restrict the spread of the virus without infringing on civil liberties, while allowing the restoration of economic and social life. My colleagues have made a judgement that the best way to balance these things is to enable people to go out and about, and to see and socialise with friends and family. However, should they choose to do so, they are required to take additional measures to restrict the spread of this virus by wearing face coverings in certain situations.

It is vital that we do all that we can to protect a second wave of Covid-19. I know that the government is keeping all guidelines under constant review to ensure that any restrictions in place are worthwhile measures in the fight against coronavirus, and I urge my constituents to comply with these measures.

For further information relating to this new guidance please refer to the government website here - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

I am grateful to my constituents for their continued efforts during this trying time.