A POWYS county councillor has welcomed this week's confirmation by British Transport Police that, on entering Wales from England, they will enforce rules on mask-wearing on public transport.

While England’s much vaunted ‘freedom day’ means that restrictions on mask-wearing and social distancing there have been lifted, the rules will remain in place in Wales until at least August 7.

This means that public transport passengers will be expected to put on masks as they cross the border into Wales, which has been backed by Welsh Liberal Democrat county councillor William Powell.

Councillor Powell, who represents the Talgarth ward on Powys County Council and also serves as a Welsh board member of transport watchdog Transport Focus, said: “It is welcome clarification for transport users that, in Wales, British Transport Police officers will continue to use the ‘4Es’ approach and, as a last resort, enforce any coronavirus legal requirements.

“It is especially welcome for vulnerable and anxious passengers, who have no alternative transport options for essential travel and who have a right to the protection afforded by Welsh Government rules.”

The ‘4Es’ is a reference to an approach based on ‘Engage. Explain. Encourage. Enforce’. First the police will try to engage with someone, explain how they are breaking the rules and encourage them to change their behaviour to reduce the risk to public safety and health.

If people still do not follow the rules the police can then fine them. If someone continues to ignore the instructions, the police can arrest them if they think it is proportionate and necessary.

Passengers leaving England to go to Wales or Scotland could be hit with a fine of up to £60 if they refuse to mask up, even if they are riding in an empty carriage.

British Transport Police warned last week: “As our jurisdiction covers three countries our officers police different laws every day, including throughout the pandemic, and are used to dealing with any challenges this presents.”

Cllr Powell, who also serves on the Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Panel, is also contacting the force to establish their plans with respect to enforcement on cross border bus services, including those originating from major transport hubs such as Hereford and Shrewsbury.

“We must remember not only the situation of passengers, but also crucially bus drivers,” added Cllr Powell, who himself battled Covid-19 during 2020.

“Over the many months of the Covid-19 pandemic, they have continued to provide an excellent service, in very difficult circumstances and at considerable personal risk. It is vital now that they have back up in enforcing Welsh Government rules, in a potentially challenging and confusing situation.”