Face masks will no longer be mandatory in shops from next Thursday, following Boris Johnson’s announcement that Plan B Covid restrictions will come to an end next week.
In a statement in the House of Commons, the prime minister confirmed that mandatory face masks will no longer be required in retail settings, although people are advised to continue wearing them in enclosed or crowded spaces.
Face coverings have been mandatory inside supermarkets and other retail settings since December. However, Johnson said evidence from scientists showed the Omicron peak had now passed.
Read more: “Flip-flopping” Covid-19 restrictions creates confusion
The government also intends to end the legal requirement for people to self-isolate after testing positive for Covid-19, looking to replace that with advice and guidance.
The current self-isolation regulations expire on 24 March, and Johnson said that he expects not to renew them.
This is expected to be welcomed by retailers and other businesses which have been struggling with staff absences during the most recent spike in infections.
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