It is encouraging to see that most people continue to wear a face covering when out and about.

Indeed, figures from the Office for National Statistics suggest nine out of 10 people have continued to wear face coverings in those areas where it is no longer compulsory.

I certainly don’t think twice about wearing my mask on trains.

But there is certainly confusion among fellow passengers.

Many a time in recent weeks have I been wearing my face covering on board when others not wearing them have looked around and then either put theirs on when they have seen me wearing one or engaged in conversation with their friends about whether it is still mandatory to wear them.

The requirement to wear face coverings in law has been lifted. However, the government expects and recommends that people wear face coverings in crowded areas such as public transport.

Department for Transport

Some people don’t wear them on the platforms or when boarding trains but do put them on when they are seated. Others don’t wear them when seated but do put them on when they get off the trains.

So let’s be clear on what the current situation is.

It is no longer compulsory in England and the Government now “recommends” people wear them on public transport.

But there are different rules in the different nations of the UK. Full details of the travel guidance for passengers are at this link. In Wales, for example, it is still mandatory to wear face coverings on public transport. Transport for London also says people must wear a face covering in stations and for the entirety of journeys.

The guidance on face coverings is one matter but the other aspect, as I’ve pointed out in previous posts on my blog before, is enforcement.

Transport for Wales has been working in collaboration with British Transport Police across the Welsh rail network to remind customers that face coverings must still be worn on public transport.

It is only by visible and regular enforcement that the policy can be achieved.

The ultimate aim must be for those people who wish to continue to wear face coverings not to feel uncomfortable being in close proximity to those who have chosen not to.

From my experience, we’re not there yet.