Wales

[Caran]

Went to M&S food in Chepstow today. We were the only ones in the store wearing masks. I asked an assistant why people were not wearing them.
I was amazed when she said you do not have to wear a mask in Wales.
I didn't know that.

[Buenchico]

The relevant legislation [The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 2) (Wales) Regulations 2020, as amended] only requires that face coverings must be worn on public transport (subject to exemptions which are similar to those in England) and not in retail premises.

The Welsh Assembly's policy is this:
"At the present time, the widespread use of masks by healthy people in the community is not supported by high quality scientific evidence. Social distancing and hygiene measures remain the most effective measures for reducing transmission of COVID-19.

The WHO is recommending, though, that as part of the wider range of measures to prevent transmission, three-layer face coverings should be encouraged in situations where social distancing and hygiene measures are difficult to maintain.

There is evidence to suggest that the wearing of face coverings gives people a false sense of security which makes them less careful about social distancing and handwashing. We know that these measures are the most effective way to reduce transmission of the virus, and don’t want to do anything that might lead to a reduction of those measures being observed"
https://gov.wales/face-coverings-frequently-asked-questions

[Caran]

Thank you Chris, very informative.

[Old_Geezer]

Bully for the Welsh.

[ichkeria]

That shows I think that most people really don’t think they are any use, but will wear them if the law says so

[Buenchico]

You've taught me something too, Caran. Although I'd never really given much thought to to the matter, if anyone had asked me I would probably have included Chepstow on a list of English racecourses!

[At this point Buenchico ducks to avoid the several tonnes of leeks, cawl, Welsh cakes , laverbread and bara brith being hurled in his direction!]

[Caran]

I know what you mean Chris. We are not that far from Chepstow and I often forget it's in Wales.

[diddlydo]

Sensible Wales - where I could also hug my young grandchildren who have Welsh grandparents (but living in England). Perhaps we should all move to Wales.......