Written question WQ83174

There are several baseline measures in place in Wales to reduce transmission of COVID-19. Face coverings can be effective in reducing the transmission in public and community settings. The effectiveness stems mostly from reducing the emission of the virus-carrying particles when worn by an infected person. They may also provide some protection to an uninfected wearer.

The First Minister has been very clear that coronavirus has not gone away. While we have been able to take a significant steps in moving away from complex legal restrictions, we must not abandon all the simple measures which have done so much to keep us all safe.

Face masks remain a legal requirement in all indoors public places, with the exception of hospitality settings. These requirements are kept under constant review and we expect to gradually ease requirements in other settings. This began with hospitality settings from 7 August, as face coverings were already not required when eating or drinking, as part of the wider lifting of restrictions on this sector.

For more information on the role of face coverings please see the latest advice provided by the Technical Advisory Group;

https://gov.wales/technical-advisory-group-advice-5-august-restriction-review-html#section-77921