Another dimension to add into the mask discussions. The government always wants to spread the message that thanks to them we, like Pangloss, live in the best of all possible worlds. All is well, the virus is crushed and we don't need to talk about it. Let's stop the meetings with advisors, and look forward to our great successes.

Mask wearing is a visual reminder that it is not so. Every mask you see says "this is not beaten yet". So the government would prefer all masks to be abandoned for PR reasons, whatever the pros and cons of health.

If you think it is more or less neutral in health terms, why not think of it as the modern equivalent of a label badge or tee shirt criticising the governments approach?