Mandatory Face Coverings/Masks for Shops/Public Transport etc

I know that the benefits of face coverings/masks are disputed, but they are increasingly being used by countries coming out of lockdown in Europe, and their use is already prevalent in Asia. I believe that, to be effective in mitigating the spread of droplets from sneezes, coughs and breaths, their use in a population needs to be more or less universal. So, I would urge that the current recommendation to consider wearing a face covering in potentially crowded or busy situations like shops and public transport should be toughened up to mandatory status, with the customary range of enforcement provisions.

I think that the wearing of face coverings/masks in appropriate situations is important because:

1. It is beneficial in preventing the spread of the virus.
2. It will publicly and visibly reinforce community commitment to a disciplined approach to emerging from the crisis.
3. It will be acknowledged by the our neighbours in Europe and the wider World as a reassurance that we are taking the threats of a "second wave" seriously and responsibly.