Morrisons have announced shoppers who refuse to wear face masks offered by staff will not be allowed inside the store, unless they are medically exempt.

 

 

Morrisons said it had “introduced and consistently maintained thorough and robust safety measures in all our stores” since the start of the pandemic.

But it said: “From today we are further strengthening our policy on masks.”

Security guards at the UK’s fourth-biggest supermarket chain will be enforcing the new rules.

The latest announcement from Morrisons comes as the Westminster government is expected to introduce tougher lockdown measures. It is also part of a crack down on customers who are not wearing masks in stores.

Morrisons colleagues will also wear face coverings when inside the supermarket.

Posting on Twitter, the supermarket giant shared an update for shoppers. It explained the shopping rules that should be followed by all who are visiting stores. “Since the start of the pandemic we have introduced and consistently maintained thorough and robust safety measures in all our stores. These include managed store entrances, plastic screens, free face coverings, managed checkout queues, rigorous and regular cleaning and clear signage and instructions for customers. From today we are further strengthening our policy on masks.”

Morrisons’ chief executive, David Potts, said: “Those who are offered a face covering and decline to wear one won’t be allowed to shop at Morrisons unless they are medically exempt.

“Our store colleagues are working hard to feed you and your family, please be kind.”