Peterborough police awaiting guidance on how to enforce new face mask laws

Face masks will have to be worn in shops from next week

Residents could face a fine of up to £100 if they do not wear a mask without a good reason when the new law is introduced next Friday,

However, a spokesperson for Cambridgeshire Constabulary said they were still waiting on guidance on how to enforce it, and if any changes would be made to patrols.

The spokesman said: “As with all legislation changes we are awaiting full details and any guidance from the National Police Chief’s Council and the College of Policing regarding our role in supporting others with these changes.

“We remain committed to working with our communities and local resilience forum partners to reduce the spread of Covid-19, and would encourage everyone to adhere to the government guidance to help keep us all safe.”

Those who do not comply with the new measures could face fines of up to £100, though this figure will be reduced to £50 if people pay within 14 days.

Unlike on public transport, retail staff will not be expected to enforce the rules - although they will be encouraged to prompt customers to comply - and the new measures will instead be upheld by the police.

The requirement to wear a face covering does not apply to:

- a child under the age of 11

- passengers in an allocated cabin, berth or other similar accommodation, when they are alone or with members of their household or support bubble

- passengers who remain in their private vehicle while on board public transport, for example on a car ferry

- an employee of the transport operator, when they are acting in the course of their employment

- any other person providing services to the transport operator, under arrangements made with the transport operator, who is providing those services

- a constable or police community support officer acting in the course of their duty

- an emergency responder such as a paramedic or fire officer acting in the course of their duty

- an official, for example a border force officer, acting in the course of their duties

You also do not need to wear a face covering if you have a good reason not to. This includes:

- if you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability that means you cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering

- if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering would cause you severe distress

- if you are travelling with, or providing assistance to, someone who relies on lip reading to communicate

- if you are travelling to avoid injury or escape the risk of harm, and you do not have a face covering with you

- if you need to remove it during your journey to avoid harm or injury or the risk of harm or injury to yourself or others

- if you need to eat, drink, or take medication you can remove your face covering

= if you are asked to remove your face covering by a police officer or other official, for example to check your railcard