The British government has decided to make compulsory placement mandatory in stores in England from July 24 to avoid a recurrence of the Covid-19 pandemic, and this measure was hailed, on Tuesday, as beneficial but late.
The muzzle position has been imposed since June 15 on public transportation only and the authorities have recommended that it be placed in enclosed public places.
On the reasons for waiting ten days, Environment Minister George Ostis said: "We want to give people some time to prepare."
"Evidence and awareness has evolved about the usefulness of gags, as we lift closure measures and allow more places to open, we also need to review existing measures to reduce virus transmission and control," he added.
This measure will not be applied to bars and restaurants, nor to supermarket staff, Ustis told BBC News.
Violators will face a fine of up to 100 pounds (110 euros), as is the case with public transport.
It is noteworthy that the application of masks is mandatory in Scotland and in many European countries.