IF you catch a Reading Buses bus in the coming days, you might be surprised to see the driver not wearing a face covering despite new coronavirus rules.

This comes despite face coverings being made mandatory again in certain locations .

Last week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced masks will be needed in shops and on public transport in response to the emergence of the Omicron variant in the UK.

The new variant contains a large number of mutations that scientists believe could make it more transmissible.

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The rule is now in place meaning commuters need to wear masks or face coverings.

This includes on Reading Buses vehicles, where passengers are expected to cover their faces unless they are medically exempt.

1806103 Reading Buses Open Day 2018 - Pictures: Mike Swift.

1806103 Reading Buses Open Day 2018 - Pictures: Mike Swift.

Robert Williams, Reading Buses Chief Executive, said: “As per the government’s guidance, face coverings will become mandatory for people using our buses from November 30.

“People who have medical exemptions will, obviously, be able to travel without wearing face coverings, but we do encourage everyone who can wear a face covering to do so – as we have been doing throughout the year – to help keep everyone safe.

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“Our buses are clean and safe anyway as they are cleaned daily and we encourage windows to remain open to help with ventilation. By wearing face coverings, customers can help us to keep everyone safe and connected.”

But drivers on the Reading Buses fleet may not always be wearing face masks, as Robert explained.

He added: “It’s worth noting that our drivers have all been issued with their own reusable face coverings, but as they are behind a screen, they do not need to wear them unless they wish to do so.”

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When wearing a face covering, Reading Buses are reminding customers to remember to not touch their faces or adjust their coverings until they are off the bus and to wash or sanitise their hands when to help prevent or limit transmission.