THE TUC has urged the government not to end the compulsory wearing of face masks on public transport and in shops when Covid-19 restrictions are lifted today.

Public transport and supermarkets have proved to be a major source of infection from the virus, the TUC warned, as it made a last-ditch appeal to government not to put lives at risk by lifting the restriction.

It says that pregnant women, unvaccinated workers and people dependent on immunity-suppressing medication are especially at risk.

The call has also been made by unions representing transport workers and shopworkers.

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “The government cannot watch from the sidelines as Covid runs riot.

“Ministers must urgently make wearing a mask a legal requirement on public transport and in shops.

“And they must toughen their vague and inadequate back-to-work guidance so workers have confidence their workplaces are safe.

“The chaos and confusion of the last few days will only grow without clear and consistent rules.”

The government has said that from today the wearing of face masks is up to individuals.

Ms O’Grady said: “It is reckless to gamble the safety of key workers, from bus drivers to supermarket staff, on individuals’ sense of personal responsibility.”

The TUC also says that workers must have the right to self-isolate to protect themselves and their families and should be given the financial support to do so.

“If we want to stop Covid ripping through workplaces, people must be supported to self-isolate,” said Ms O’Grady.

“That means providing decent sick pay — to the level of the real living wage — and making sure everyone can get it.”