FINES for not wearing masks are to be hiked to up to £3,200.
The move comes amid fears that young people could fuel a second wave of coronavirus in Britain.
Organisers of illegal lockdown raves will also be slapped with £10,000 fines.
Ministers are worried that young people — who are rarely affected by the virus — are flouting social distancing and mask wearing rules. As a result, they risk spreading Covid-19 to elderly relatives, with deadly consequences.
People face a £100 fine for not wearing a mask. Repeat offenders will now see fines double each time — all the way up to a maximum of £3,200.
It is compulsory to wear face coverings on public transport, in shops and when collecting takeaway food. Last month Met Police boss Dame Cressida Dick said she would prefer for shoppers to be “shamed” into wearing masks rather than officers have to enforce the rules.
But concern among ministers and medics that too many were ignoring this tactic, led Boris Johnson to last night order a clampdown. Illegal raves that have seen thousands of young people across Britain flout social distancing measures are also his ministers sights.
Known as “forest parties”, they are promoted on social media and have sprung up across the country.
The Met says more than 530 illegal raves were held in July in the capital, with police across the country also battling all night gatherings.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “These measures send a clear message — if you don’t cooperate with the police and if you put our health at risk, action will follow.”
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