The decree making it compulsory in France to wear masks in enclosed areas open to the public will come into force "next week", French Prime Minister Jean Castex announced to the Senate.
"We were planning for these provisions to come into force on 1 August", said the Prime Minister. "I understand that this deadline was too late (...) so the decree will come into force next week", he said during his general policy statement to the senators.
"An effective prevention and protection measure".
"Wearing a mask is an effective preventive and protective measure, along with observing barrier procedures", he stressed.
Emmanuel Macron's announcement on 14 July that it would be compulsory to wear a mask in "enclosed public places" from 1 August had pleased those who advocated this measure, but they were calling for it to be applied without delay, including in the workplace.
Jean Castex pointed out that "in so-called professional premises, this implies a change in the health protocols governing the activities concerned".
By APF LE TEMPS
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