TSSA welcomes mandatory face coverings on public transport

TSSA General Secretary, Manuel Cortes, has backed the announcement from Government that face coverings will be mandatory across public transport from Monday 15 June in England.

The move was unveiled at the Coronavirus daily briefing in Downing St by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

In response, Manuel Cortes said: 

"This is a welcome step by the Government which will lower the transmission of this deadly virus among those using public transport in the weeks and months to come.

"However, it’s also important to stress that people must not interpret the use of a face covering as a licence to breach social distancing measures as lockdown eases. A physical distance of at least two metres between passengers and/or staff must be maintained at all times as this remains the most effective measure to control the spread of Covid-19.

"Our union has been pressing Ministers and transport bosses for further action to protect our members on the front line, as face coverings are no substitute for protective equipment. Sadly, some bosses have yet to issue the visors and other personal protective equipment that our members require."