POLICE Scotland have issued the first fine against a shopper for refusing to wear a face covering.
Officers spoke to a man who refused to comply with the Covid-19 guidelines in a supermarket in Jedburgh last Thursday.
The shopper, the only person who has been fined since the rules came into force on July 10, was fined £60.
Face coverings are also mandatory on public transport. People with certain medical conditions or disabilities, and children under five, are exempt from the rule.
Assistant chief constable Gary Ritchie said: “The chief constable has made it clear that we are asking people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to stay safe, protect others and save lives by preventing the virus from spreading.
“Our officers will continue to engage with the public, explain the legislation and guidance and encourage compliance.
“We will use enforcement as a last resort only where there is a clear breach of the legislation.”
The news emerged as it became mandatory for people to wear face coverings in shops in England too.
They are compulsory in places like supermarkets, indoor shopping centres, transport hubs, banks and takeaways, and those who do not comply could be fined up to £100.
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