THREE Dorset MPs have rebelled against the Conservatives by voting against the new face covering regulations.

Prime minister Boris Johnson announced face coverings would be mandatory in shops and on public transport following a rise in coronavirus cases and the emergence of the Omicron variant.

The rules don’t apply to other indoor venues such as gyms, theatres and cinemas, although it was recommended.

However, 19 Conservatives rebelled against the plans, including three from Dorset.

Sir Christopher Chope, MP for Christchurch, Sir Robert Syms, MP for Poole and Richard Drax, MP for South Dorset, all rebelled.

There was also rebellion to the new self-isolation regulations from 32 Conservative MPs.

Anyone who has come into contact with a person suspected of suffering from the Omicron variant must self-isolate at home for ten days, regardless of their vaccination status.

Sir Christopher Chope and Sir Robert Syms voted against this, as did Desmond Swayne, MP for New Forest West.