Fines increase for people refusing to wear face coverings - this is how much you could pay and where you must wear a mask

Boris Johnson has announced tougher penalties for people who refuse to wear face coverings as England prepares for a further easing of lockdown measures.
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Currently, those who refuse to wear a face covering where it is mandatory – such as on public transport or in a shop – face a £100 fine. This could be reduced to £50 if paid within a fortnight.

But new measures announced by the Prime Minister on Thursday, August 13 revealed that the current penalty will double for subsequent offenders, and could reach a maximum of £3,200.

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In England, face coverings must be worn in a number of settings including public transport, shops and museums.

Face coverings are mandatory in a number of settings.Face coverings are mandatory in a number of settings.
Face coverings are mandatory in a number of settings.

There are some exemptions for younger children, and on health grounds.

The tougher enforcement measures come as the Prime Minister confirmed plans to open up more of the economy from Saturday, August 15.

A number of reopenings originally planned for Saturday, August 1 were postponed for at least a fortnight due to fears over a slight increase in the number of people in England testing positive for the virus.

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Tougher fines are to be introduced for those who refuse to wear face coverings.Tougher fines are to be introduced for those who refuse to wear face coverings.
Tougher fines are to be introduced for those who refuse to wear face coverings.

*Pilots of spectators at sporting events will resume

*Casinos, bowling alleys, skating rinks and soft plays can reopen

*Close-contact beauty services can resume – but staff will have to wear a mask as well as a clear visor

*Wedding receptions for up to 30 guests will be allowed

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*Pilots will take place at conference venues ahead of the expected resumption of business events from the autumn – October 1 at the earliest

The latest lockdown easing will also not apply in the areas currently subject to local lockdown restrictions.

The Prime Minister said on Thursday: “Most people in this country are following the rules and doing their bit to control the virus, but we must remain focused and we cannot be complacent."

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