THE Government will look at whether see-through face masks should be used after a heartfelt plea from a deaf schoolboy to the Prime Minister.

Austin Goddard, 11, wrote to Boris Johnson and sent a video message to explain how the use of face masks can make understanding other people really tough for those who, like him, are deaf.

It follows the rules which state those using public transport must wear a face covering.

Austin wanted the Prime Minister to encourage people to wear see-through masks and visors and to encourage see-through masks to be made so deaf people can continue to lip read.

His calls were backed by academic Dr Andrea Pepper, a reader at the Sussex Medical School, who is also deaf and has faced challenges in her own working life.

In his video, Lancing schoolboy Austin said: “I don’t like them and they make me feel sad and lonely because I can’t understand what anybody is saying. I also find them very scary. It’s important for deaf people to see lips and I’d like everyone to wear a see-through mask.”

His appeal was made as part of a campaign organised by the National Deaf Children’s Society.

The Argus:

Read more on this story: Deaf schoolboy Austin Goddard makes plea to Boris Johnson over masks

Austin’s mum Justine backed his call. She said: “I’m very proud of Austin for raising this important issue. But I’m also sad that in this day and age, a child has to raise something that should already be in place.

“Deaf people rely on lip-reading and facial expressions and a smile can speak a thousand words.”

In response the Government has said it will look at what adjustments can be made.

The Argus:

Read more on this story: Deaf doctor's communication fears over face coverings

A statement from 10 Downing Street said: “The Government regularly engages with a wide range of disabled people’s organisations and charities in order to better understand the concerns of disabled people. This is to help ensure that Government guidelines are appropriately tailored to be as inclusive as possible.”

“The Government is committed to ensuring deaf people can fully participate in society and support initiatives aimed at improving understanding of the deaf community’s needs.

“We understand that mandatory use of face coverings will be difficult to adhere to for some.

“That is why there are exemptions to the rules.”