Northern Ireland

Sammy Wilson again pictured without face mask

Sammy Wilson was spotted at Heathrow Airport with a covering dangling from one ear
Sammy Wilson was spotted at Heathrow Airport with a covering dangling from one ear Sammy Wilson was spotted at Heathrow Airport with a covering dangling from one ear

DUP MP Sammy Wilson has been pictured not wearing his face mask correctly again for the second time in days.

The East Antrim MP, who was photographed on a flight from London to Belfast last week wearing his mask below his nose, was spotted at Heathrow Airport with a covering dangling from one ear as he checked his phone.

The DUP has criticised Mr Wilson for not following proper protocol.

A spokesman said face coverings have been mandatory on public transport since July 10, 2020.

Sammy Wilson was understood to be on a flight from London Heathrow to Belfast City Airport
Sammy Wilson was understood to be on a flight from London Heathrow to Belfast City Airport Sammy Wilson was understood to be on a flight from London Heathrow to Belfast City Airport

"Their purpose is to protect others rather than the wearer. The covering should be worn correctly over the nose, mouth and around the sides of the face. Elected representatives should set an example where possible. Mr Wilson should not have worn the mask in this manner on the aeroplane."

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Following the incident last week, Mr Wilson criticised "snoopers" and said: "I can wear my mask whatever way I want. I was wearing a mask - full stop".

It is the latest mask controversy in which the veteran DUP MP has embroiled himself in recent months.

Sammy Wilson was photographed on the London Underground without a face covering
Sammy Wilson was photographed on the London Underground without a face covering Sammy Wilson was photographed on the London Underground without a face covering

In September, he was pictured on the London Underground without a mask.

He also came in for criticism in July from members of his own party and people living with disabilities when he referred to facemasks as "muzzles" in a tweet about supporting local businesses.