Tens of millions of people could be ordered to wear a mask when they leave their homes after the Government announced a review of its policy on curbing the spread of COVID-19. Britain’s Chief Scientific Advisor Sir Patrick Vallance suggested a possible U-turn on masks, which up until now have been an optional item of protection for the public. The Government has previously insisted there is no scientific evidence that backs up claims masks protect people from being infected.

On Monday, a UK-based scientist with the World Health Organisation (WHO) said people should wear masks as the virus would “stalk the human race” for some time.

Dr David Nabarro said masks covering the nose and mouth would provide “reassurance” for millions of Britons as the viral disease spreads.

But the difference of opinion over making face marks mandatory to wear don’t stop there, as the latest poll from Express.co.uk reveals.

The poll of 3,406 people, which ran from 3pm on Tuesday April 14 until 2.30pm on Wednesday April 15, shows Britons are still hugely divided over the matter.

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Just over half of those who voted (52 percent or 1,771 readers) said Britons should be forced to wear face masks in the fight against coronavirus.

Many believe that if they can be supplied, they would certainly reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

One reader wrote: “A face mask is useful to protect others from you, once a virus is well established. It is about protecting the uninfected from the infected.

“If face masks are made available then they would certainly reduce transmission.

Another person explained the little known benefits of face masks and said: “My next door neighbour works in a lab.

“You can reuse these masks, he hangs them up after each day, the virus takes two-to-three days to die out.

“Every Forth day you can wear it again, so you will need four masks to keep safe.”

But 45.6 percent (1,552 readers) who voted in the poll believe Britons should not be forced to wear face masks.

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The UK Government has come under increasing criticism about a huge shortage in personal protective equipment (PPE) to front line NHS workers – grievances shared by Express.co.uk readers.

One person commented: “The Government can’t even supply enough for the NHS.

“What’s the chances they could ever find enough for the rest of us?”

Another person said: “I disagree with ordering all people to wear face masks.

“If there aren’t enough for the our front line workers, then there definitely won’t be enough for the population.

A third reader wrote: “Face masks should be worn by all people, but the trouble is the people can’t get them.

“Even worse is the fact hospitals and care homes are in short supply.”

Nigel Farage also weighed into the debate on mandatory masks, and speaking on LBC radio, He warned wearing them would be price Britons should expect to pay for the current coronavirus lockdown being lifted.

But he said the country had arrived “last to the party” when it came to protective measures aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19.

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