British government changes advice on wearing masks in English schools

The British government has revised its advice on face coverings for schools in England, which are beginning to reopen this week. In areas where the transmission of coronavirus is high, masks will be compulsory for secondary pupils and staff, where social distancing isn’t possible.
Elsewhere headteachers will have the discretion to set their own policy. Ministers had ruled out mandatory face coverings, saying the scientific advice showed schools are safe, but the Education Secretary Gavin Williamson now says the new guidelines are based on the latest World Health Organisation guidelines. Primary schools are not affected. Scotland and Northern Ireland have already said secondary school pupils should wear masks in communal areas, and the Welsh government is reviewing its guidance. Clive Myrie introduces this report from our Education Editor, Branwen Jeffreys.