THE vast majority of people now follow the guidance that face-coverings should be worn in public busy places and on buses. The group which seems to find most difficulty in complying with this guidance seems to be older teenagers. It may be only a minority who experience this compliance problem, but nevertheless it is a significant number.
If we are serious about the wearing of items which protect others, then if “advice” is not followed we must go to the next stage of enforcement.
On buses for example, the driver must take on the additional, and undoubtedly difficult, task of demanding compliance. This is done in many areas already, eg if you have no money for your fare, if you are in possession of a dangerous item such as a knife, if you are disabled and use a mobility scooter rather than a wheelchair or if you wish to carry your bike onboard then the driver is likely to deny you access.
READ MORE: Glasgow Airport: Police called as passenger refused to wear a mask
In schools, if a pupil through their actions puts the safety of fellow pupils or staff members at risk then they will be extensively counselled and helped to modify their behaviour. If their errant behaviour continues then schools, with great reluctance, may be forced to resort to the ultimate sanction – ie exclusion from school. This undoubtedly harms the life chances of the excluded pupil and I fully understand the feelings of the Deputy First Minister that exclusion should be avoided at all costs, however we are living through extraordinarily difficult times and all of us, including young adults, have to comply with some extraordinarily difficult advice.
READ MORE: Coronavirus in Scotland: John Swinney reveals plans for pupils who don't wear masks
There is always the problem that rules which are designed to match the demands of current crises tend to linger or be consolidated when the crises have passed. I most certainly do not want to live in a police state, but I am sure that the issue of rules relaxation can be competently handled as and when the coronavirus can be safely managed or eliminated, via medical intervention.
Masks are worn not for your own safety. The inconvenience and discomfort of wearing them is borne for selfless reasons – for the safety and health of your parents, grandparents, friends, colleagues and fellow citizens. The vast majority of our young people fully understand this.
Alex Leggatt
Edinburgh
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