(1/7) Over the last number of months, the population as a whole have accepted a degree of state interference in their lives, which in a free society should never be regarded as a permanent arrangement.

(2/7) As we emerge from lockdown, surely the level of state interference in our lives should be reduced, not increased? It should be up to individuals to decide what actions they wish to take to ensure their own safety and their social responsibility for others.

(3/3) Even at the height of the pandemic, Ministers & their experts were not recommending mandatory face coverings. Read the timeline here: https://newseu.cgtn.com/news/2020-06-06/Timeline-The-UK-s-arguments-against-face-masks-for-all-R4ZUizpUfm/index.html

(4/4) On April 3, Deputy Chief Medical Office Jonathan Van Tam said, during the Downing Street press briefing, there was “no evidence the general wearing of face masks by the public who are well affects the spread of the disease”.

(5/7) If approved, who will enforce this mandatory measure? Will shop owners be expected to throw out non-complying customers? Will Councils have to employ more health officers to patrol shops? Or will it be a job for the PSNI?

(6/7) There is no point introducing a rule which cannot be enforced, will damage public confidence and will decrease footfall on our already struggling high streets.

(7/7) On face masks, we should allow individuals, not government, to decide.