By
Press Association 2021
Children wearing facemasks during a lesson at Hounslow Kingsley Academy in West London (Kirsty O'Connor/PA)
The schools minister hopes that pupils will no longer have to wear face masks in class in secondary schools and colleges in England from mid-May.
But Nick Gibb said the decision on whether to lift the precautionary measure when further easing of social contact limits indoors are confirmed, which will be no earlier than May 17, will depend on “the data”.
His comments came after MPs raised concerns about face coverings disrupting pupils’ learning and wellbeing.
During the education select committee, Caroline Johnson, Conservative MP for Sleaford and North Hykeham, said she had heard many stories of children “really suffering” as a result of wearing masks.