Freedom Day on July 19, 2021, saw all legal limits on social contact and other related Covid restrictions being lifted. This included the use of face masks in public spaces. But as Covid cases, hospitalisations and death soar could mask-wearing be reintroduced this Autumn?

       In the latest Downing Street press conference Professor Chris Whitty revealed some sobering news.

       He announced Covid cases, hospitalisations and deaths are higher than they were this time last year.

       He later added this year’s flu season will likely be worse.

       This could put additional stress on the NHS.

       READ MORE: Covid winter plan IN FULL: The 4 things we learned from Sajid Javid

       To prevent it from becoming overwhelmed the PM has outlined his “plan B”.

       This includes the reintroduction of certain Covid measures, which were removed on July 19.

       Plan B is the Government’s plan to reintroduce certain Covid measures to prevent the NHS from coming under “unsustainable pressure” this winter.

       Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the plan was part of Downing Street’s contingency planning.

       If the NHS starts to struggle face coverings could become mandatory.

       Mr Javid said face masks would continue to be recommended in crowded and indoor public places.

       But he warned they might become mandatory as part of contingency measures.

       Other measures which could be reintroduced as part of the Government’s “Plan B” include:

       But Prime Minister Boris Johnson has insisted: ”More harmful economic and social restrictions would only be considered as a last resort.”

       The legal requirement to wear a face mask ended on Freedom day for all those in England.

       But businesses and travel operators can set their own rules for customers.

       Many transport providers such as Transport for London and the trams in Manchester still ask their passengers to wear masks on their services.

       Many shops also encourage the use of face masks in England.

       While in Scotland masks are still mandatory in shops and on public transport, as well as in pubs and restaurants when not seated.

       In Wales, masks are still needed to travel on public transport and must be worn in all public indoor places except for pubs and restaurants.

       In Northern Ireland face coverings are mandatory on public transport, shops and hospitality venues.