COWDENBEATH MSP Annabelle Ewing, while welcoming Phase 3 of the Route Map out of lockdown has reminded people that from today face coverings are mandatory if you go into a shop.

Ms Ewing took the opportunity of questions at the Scottish Parliament yesterday (Thursday) following the First Minister’s statement to seek Ms Sturgeon’s views on the wider wearing of face coverings.

Speaking afterwards, Ms Ewing said: “I know that my constituents will be pleased and relieved that the progress that Scotland has made in tackling the spread of the coronavirus means that we are now able to move into Phase 3 of the route out of lockdown.

"There will, of course, also be disappointment at some things that might not have been included, but it is so important that we progress only as quickly as it is safe to do so".

Added the MSP: “Following the statement, I highlighted to the First Minister, reports from the World Health Organisation that the virus might, in fact, remain in the air for longer than previously thought and so I wondered whether the FM would encourage people to wear face coverings in any location where they feel unsafe, as well as, of course, when they are in shops or travelling on public transport.

“I was pleased that the First Minister took the opportunity to agree with me that the issue underlines the importance of wearing face coverings in enclosed spaces and to reiterate that face coverings should be worn, not just because it is the law or because it can be enforced and you can be fined by the police if you do not do it.

"You should do it because it is the right thing to do.”