COVID-19: Rules on face masks could be changed next month, said Health Secretary Matt Hancock | Political news

The government could change the rules for wearing masks next month, the health secretary told Sky News.

Matt Hancock said ministers “have not ruled this out” as part of the fourth stage of England’s easing roadmap. COVID-19[female[feminine restrictions on June 21, but urged the population to exercise “personal responsibility”.

Wearing face masks in a variety of settings, including in shops and on public transport, has been mandatory since last summer.

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Mr Hancock also said people aged 35 and over will be offered their coronavirus vaccine “very soon”, with the rollout currently inoculating everyone over 40.

Health Secretary speaking after Boris Johnson confirmed third step in easing lockdown will go ahead next Monday.

This will see pubs and restaurants reopen indoors and people allowed to mingle indoors as two households or under the rule of six.

People will also have the choice to socially distance themselves from close family and friends they meet.

But they are urged to be cautious about the risks of hugs.

Asked about it, Hancock said ministers would issue guidance on narrow personal conduct and that “trusting people’s personal responsibility is the right way to go.”

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“It depends on the situation of the people,” he said of hugging.

“We are going to change the rules so that people take more of their personal responsibilities, exercise …