PASSENGERS will be required to wear face coverings on public transport and taxis in Wales from next week.

Face coverings will be mandatory on buses, trains and taxis from Monday, July 27, but First Minister Mark Drakeford said that passengers could choose to wear them now.

"It will become mandatory for people to wear a three-layer face covering on public transport, including taxis," said the First Minister.

All operators are expected to have the latest measures in place by July 27.

County Times:

First Minister Mark Drakeford. Image: Welsh Government

The Welsh Government will be writing to retailers to discuss further measures in stores this week.

As coronavirus cases are falling, Mr Drakeford says there will be no mandate for wearing face coverings anywhere other than on public transport.

He said that in crowded places is was "advisable" for people to wear masks while in less crowded places it was a matter for the individual to decide.