CUSTOMERS who do not wear face masks will not be allowed to shop in Morrisons unless they are exempt, the supermarket giant has announced. 

Morrisons says it is strengthening its policy on masks, meaning anyone entering a store without a mask will need to have a medical exemption. 

The move comes as pressure mounts for supermarkets to revert to more stringent in-store measures due to staff safety concerns.

Morrisons chief executive, David Potts said: “Those who are offered a face covering and decline to wear one won’t be allowed to shop at Morrisons unless they are medically exempt.

"Our store colleagues are working hard to feed you and your family, please be kind.”

Boris Johnson today urged the public to respect coronavirus regulations when out grocery shopping and buying takeaway coffee, amid “deep” concerns from food retail workers over their safety.

Shopworkers’ union Usdaw said that it had been “inundated” with complaints from its members – who are classed as key workers – and called for supermarkets to revert to more stringent in-store measures.

Retail bosses have also suggested that further police support is needed to help enforce measures, which they say are leading to an increase in abuse towards staff.

Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis said: “Retail staff are working with the public every day and not only suffer increased abuse, but are deeply worried about catching Covid-19.

“Where safety measures are agreed, retailers need to make sure that they are being followed consistently, in every store.

“We are also very concerned by reports that too many customers are not following necessary safety measures like social distancing, wearing a face covering and only shopping for essential items.

“Many retail workers are at a greater risk of catching the virus and bringing it home to their families.

“These key workers must be valued, respected and protected.”