I have been contacted by constituents regarding Face Coverings On Transport.
As the Member of Parliament for Milton Keynes South, I have included below my response:
Since 19th July, all legal restrictions on social contact have been lifted. The 1 metre plus rule on social distancing has been dropped, as well as the legal obligation to wear a face covering.
It is important that we all continue to play our part in controlling the virus. While coronavirus restrictions have been lifted, we should all use personal judgement by exercising common sense to manage our own risk. People can help to control the coronavirus and travel safely by, for example, planning their journeys ahead and checking routes to avoid busier services.
It is advised that people check with their transport operators for the latest travel advice, and for any policies they may have in place. The Government also still expects and recommends that people use face coverings in crowded areas such as public transport, to help reduce the chance of infecting others. This expectation is reflected in both the guidance issued to passengers and the guidance issued to travel operators.
In addition, people should wash or sanitise their hands and catch coughs or sneezes with tissues (which should be disposed of in a bin). People should not be using public transport at all if they have symptoms of coronavirus or if they or anyone in their household is self-isolating.
I want to reassure constituents that guidance that has been issued to transport operators to help manage risks on public transport also covers measures such as queue management, ventilation and cleaning.
Every action to help control the spread will reduce any further resurgence of the virus in the coming months. As the vaccine rollout continues, the priority of the Department will continue to be to provide a safe and reliable transport system that the public can be confident in.
