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From Friday July 24 face coverings will be mandatory in a whole range of indoor places across England in order to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

The new rules mean people will have to wear a mask, scarf or bandana across their mouth and nose in in shops, supermarkets and indoor shopping centres.

Face coverings will also be compulsory in indoor train stations, airports, ports, and indoor bus and coach stations.

The rule applies to banks, building societies and post offices.

And it will also be compulsory to wear a face covering when buying food and drink to takeaway from cafes and shops.

But people will be allowed to remove covering if the place where they have bought food or drink has somewhere to sit down.

Matt Hancock, the health secretary, said wearing a face mask was “vital” as lockdown restrictions were lifted. 

“Everyone must play their part in fighting this virus by following this new guidance,” he said.

“I also want to thank the British public for all the sacrifices they are making to help keep this country safe.”

Face coverings will not be mandatory in eat-in restaurants and pubs.

Similarly people will not have to wear a mask in hairdressers, gyms, leisure centres, cinemas, museums concert halls or theatres. 

It will not be compulsory for shop or supermarket staff to wear a coverings.

Children under the age of 11 will also be exempt, as will people with health conditions including breathing difficulties or mental health conditions such as anxiety or panic disorders.