Operators to decide on masks

The government has said bus and train companies must decide whether passengers have to wear face coverings on services once COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) rules in England are relaxed.

Face masks have been mandatory on public transport for the past year to reduce the spread of the virus.

The government, however, is replacing the rules with guidance, advising passengers to wear masks only on busy services.

From Monday 19th July, transport firms will have to decide whether to enforce the government’s advice — and how.