Bus and train passengers must wear face coverings from June 15

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said in the latest coronavirus briefing that wearing a mask, a scarf or a bandana over your mouth will become mandatory on public transport in England.

Those who do not have a face covering can be prevented from travelling and those who refuse to could be fined.

Young children will be exempted, as will those who have breathing difficulties.

Network Rail chairman Sir Peter Hendy told the briefing: “This is about people being sensible - people do what they’re asked as long as what they’re asked to do is sensible.”

The requirement to wear face coverings will come in on the day when the government allows non-essential shops to reopen, as long as they satisfy Covid-19 safety regulations.