Coronavirus: What are the rules for face masks or face coverings?

Face coverings reduce the spread of coronavirus droplets from coughs, sneezes and speaking.

With new, more contagious variants of the virus now circulating, some experts and officials are questioning whether people should wear more protective masks in some settings.

Germany and Austria have now made medical-grade masks compulsory on public transport and in shops.

The World Health Organization says it has no plans to change its guidance recommending fabric facemasks for the general public because the new coronavirus variants are transmitted in the same way.

So what protection do masks offer, and what sort can be worn?

Cloth face coverings do not give the wearer as much protection as the masks that healthcare workers wear.

They should mainly be worn to protect other people from coronavirus, rather than yourself.

When worn correctly, they should cover the nose and mouth, which are the main confirmed sources of transmission.

They can help to reduce the spread of the virus from people who are contagious, including those who have no symptoms, or are yet to develop them.

There is also evidence they can offer some protection to the wearer, although they are not a replacement for social distancing and hand-washing.

Face coverings (or masks) are compulsory across the UK when:

People can be refused travel for not following the rules or fined. In England and Northern Ireland the police can issue a £200 fine. In Scotland and Wales, a £60 fine can be imposed. Repeat offenders face bigger fines.

In England and Scotland, face coverings are also compulsory in a number of indoor spaces, including:

Scotland also requires face coverings to be worn in indoor spaces, such as staff canteens and corridors in workplaces. Couples are no longer required to wear them when exchanging marriage vows.

In Wales, face coverings must be worn in all indoor public places by customers and staff.

In Northern Ireland, they must be worn in "any other indoor place where goods or services are available to buy or rent".

Some people do not have to wear a face covering. They include:

You can remove your mask if:

Young children should not wear face masks because of the risk of choking and suffocation.

If you have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face covering, government guidance says you do not have to show any written evidence for why you are exempt.

You should not seek medical advice or request a letter from a medical professional about your situation, and the government does not provide exemption cards or badges.

However, the government has provided some suggested templates which people can use if they wish.

There is more specific guidance about face coverings and exemptions in Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland.

Primary and secondary schools in the UK have moved to remote learning for most pupils, except for children of critical workers and those deemed vulnerable, who can still physically go to school each day.

The government does not recommend wearing face coverings in schools and colleges because of the Covid controls already in place.

However, each nation is adopting different rules:

The BBC has created a guide on how to make your own face covering.

The government has issued its own advice too.