Nicola Sturgeon addressed the Scottish Parliament today (March 15) and for many, it was expected that the legal requirement to wear face coverings in some settings in Scotland would end next week.
On February 22, Nicola announced that face coverings would be scrapped in March - specifically March 21.
Last month Sturgeon explained that the advice will remain the same for those who want to wear them but when the date comes, it would no longer be a legal requirement.
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However this has now changed for a few reasons as when it was decided, the FM made it clear that the proposal to scrap masks was based on "the current situation and will go ahead so long as there are no significant adverse development" such as in increase in cases.
However, as we now know, this has happened.
Addressing MSPs last month she said: "Assuming no significant adverse developments in the course of the virus - we expect that the legal requirement to wear face coverings in certain indoor settings and on public transport will be converted to guidance.
"However, we will continue to strongly recommend the wearing of face coverings in shops and other indoor public places, and on public transport."
Because of this, Ms Sturgeon confirmed in her speech today that they will remain for a few more weeks until at least early April 2022.
She explained: "Ensuring continued widespread use of face coverings will provide some additional protection - particularly for the most vulnerable - at a time when the risk of infection is very high, and it may help us get over this spike more quickly. We will review it again in two weeks - before Easter recess - and our expectation now is that this regulation will convert to guidance in early April."
Where you need to wear face masks until at least April 2022
Due to the current spike in cases, face masks will remain a legal requirement for a few weeks longer than exacted. In a tweet the Scottish Government said: "First Minister @NicolaSturgeon has confirmed the legal requirement to wear face coverings on public transport and most indoor public settings" such as concerts, football games and shops, will remain until at least Monday 4 April."
