Thank you very much for contacting me about face coverings and lip reading.

Welsh Conservatives absolutely agree that it is vital to ensure that people who are deaf or hard of hearing are not isolated through face coverings which are preventing them from lip reading, particularly children who may not feel confident asking someone they have not heard correctly to repeat themselves. That is why I am glad that a coalition of charities, including the National Deaf Children's Society, Action on Hearing Loss and the Royal Association of Deaf People have joined forces to issue guidance on how to speak with a face mask. As you have outlined, these tips are:

1. Write phrases down

2. Use a text to speak app

3. Conduct conversations over video call, where there is no need to wear a mask

4. Try to use a clear face mask or visor

5. Find a quiet place to talk

I would be happy to promote this guidance at all levels, and I will raise your points about NHS Wales and clear masks directly with the Minister for Health.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.

Yours sincerely,

Mark Isherwood MS