Britain is stockpiling face masks to be used on public transport and in shops. Michael Gove revealed that a "domestic effort" has been launched to slow the spread of coronavirus by producing masks that "limit the droplets that each of us might be responsible for".
His commitment comes after Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon gazumped the UK government in advising Scots to wear masks.
She told her daily briefing that coverings should be worn in enclosed spaces, such as shops or on public transport. It is thought that her advice is likely to become UK-wide guidance in the coming days, although the government in Westminster has so far stopped short of it, referring to the science behind their effectiveness as "weak".