Face coverings no longer legally required from Monday, Scottish Government confirms

The Scottish Government has confirmed the legal requirement to wear face coverings in most indoor public settings will become guidance from Monday (April 18).

The government is still 'strongly recommending' that people where face masks 'where appropriate' as members of the public are advised to carry on taking sensible precautions to reduce the spread of Covid-19.

It comes as, from Monday, most people without symptoms of the virus will no longer be asked to take regular lateral flow tests (LFTs). And LFTs for the purpose of twice weekly routine testing will no longer be available for the general population. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “In recent weeks we have seen steady progress as we move back to a greater sense of normality and a more sustainable way of managing this virus.

“However our NHS is still under pressure and the most vulnerable members of our society can still benefit from additional measures to protect them from the virus.

“That is why although the use of face coverings will become guidance rather than a legal requirement I strongly recommend members of the public continue wearing face coverings in indoor settings where possible, and particularly when significant numbers of people are present.

“We should also all continue to follow the latest advice on hygiene, ventilation, testing and of course vaccination to protect ourselves and each other.”