With 120 countries making masks compulsory in public, shouldn’t England?

Scientists still divided on the issue as PM hints he will make face coverings mandatory for shoppers

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Scientists remain divided over the effectiveness of masks in providing protection against the Covid-19 virus in the wake of Boris Johnson's hints that he would soon make face coverings compulsory in shops in England.

Some senior researchers told the Observer that they strongly backed the decision as part of the government's campaign to encourage people to get back to work. Others were less certain that it would be effective.