UK coronavirus LIVE: Death toll nears 40,000 as commuters told they must wear face coverings on public transport

Face coverings must be worn on all forms of public transport in England from June 15, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced, as the coronavirus death toll in the UK nears 40,000.

London mayor Sadiq Khan was among those who have been lobbying the Government to make face coverings mandatory on public transport. He said ministers have “finally seen sense”, adding that there is “a large body of evidence” that face coverings can help stop the spread of coronavirus.

Meanwhile, Business Secretary Alok Sharma has tested negative for coronavirus after he dramatically fell ill in the House of Commons on Wednesday.

Mr Shapps told the daily Downing Street briefing that Mr Sharma was “doing fine” and working from home, having spoken to him on Thursday afternoon.

Follow our live updates below...