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A man has been charged after sputting in the face of a Glasgow Subway worker during the coronavirus pandemic. 

British Transport Police revealed the incident, which took place on Thursday, was escalated from anti-social behaviour to "Cuplable and Reckless Conduct" because of the deadly virus. 

They added that people will "face the consequences" for their actions.

It comes as police were given new powers amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which included enforcing rules to ensure people are social distancing and non-essential businesses are remaining closed.

READ MORE: Coronavirus in Scotland LIVE: Death tolls rises to 47 | SEC hospital plans | 1500+ cases

A tweet by British Transport Police's Operational Support Unit read: "Report of spitting at Glasgow Subway Station staff on March 26.

"D Division West OSU have the male identified and charged.

"Increased to 'Culpable and Reckless Conduct' due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Key workers do not deserve this. Spit=Face the consequences".