Coronavirus: Boris Johnson says schools face mask advice might change

Boris Johnson has hinted at a U-turn on guidance that face-coverings do not need to be worn by pupils in English schools, saying: “If we need to change the advice then of course we will.”

The comment came as the prime minister came under growing pressure to mandate the use of masks when schools return next week, after Scotland announced its pupils will wear face-coverings in common areas from Monday.

Headteachers are urging Westminster to review its policy, while the Welsh government has asked its scientific advisers to “revisit the evidence” today.

Students in England and Wales are set to resume lessons on Tuesday but the government's advice does not include the use of face masks, despite their being mandatory in other settings.

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