Thank you for contacting me about wearing face coverings.
The Government is following scientific guidance to ensure that steps are taken to enable people to go about their business as safely as possible during the Covid-19 pandemic. Face coverings are not mandatory in public other than in certain situations, like on public transport, in NHS settings and, since 8 August, in all enclosed spaces where you are likely to encounter people outside your household.
I agree that it is important to be sensitive to the needs and experiences of those who have a reasonable excuse not to wear a mask. This is why people with a reasonable excuse should not be routinely asked to give written evidence of their exemption.
There is no evidence at all to support the claim that face coverings can suppress the body's immune system - they may stop germs getting into your mouth or nose so that the immune system does not have to kick in, but this is not the same as it being suppressed. It is extremely irresponsible for people to promote these myths when there is an increasing body of evidence to show that face coverings can reduce the spread of Covid-19 and as such can save lives.
I agree that it is vital to balance the need to restrict the spread of the virus without infringing on civil liberties, while allowing the restoration of economic and social life. Face masks work to facilitate this balance being struck. It is imperative that we do all that we can to protect people, in particular during this resurgence of cases of Covid-19. I know that the Government is keeping all guidelines under constant review to ensure that any restrictions in place are worthwhile measures in the fight against Covid-19, and I urge my constituents to comply with these measures.
While I understand that the science in this area has evolved during the outbreak, the body of scientific evidence that has built up shows that the risk of transmission is made lower by wearing a face covering.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
