Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford and MP Alyn Smith have commented on the confirmation from the First Minister today that current restrictions for the Forth Valley health board area will continue until November 2nd.
This includes a ban on pubs and restaurants opening, alongside a nationwide ban on visiting other households. Cafes may open, however a maximum of 6 people may meet from a maximum of two households.
The Scottish Government have planned a five-tier system in order to address the local risk of infection spread following the current restriction period.
Bruce Crawford MSP said:
“This will be disappointing to people, as it is for me. It might not feel like it, but we have made huge progress in scuppering the spread of Covid-19 in our communities. The virus is not nearly as widespread throughout the country as it would otherwise have been if we had not had these restrictions in place.
“It’s important to remember that the reason as to why we have these current restrictions in place is to avoid a full lockdown again.
“The First Minister confirmed this week that additional financial support would be made available to businesses who are affected by these continued restrictions. I will work closely with businesses, local communities, and public organisations to ensure that people are supported as fully and possible during this time.”
Alyn Smith MP said:
“This wasn’t the news that any of us wanted, but we’re here to protect people and save lives. My main concern is business and jobs, and I’ll continue to call for support where it’s needed, working closely with local communities and businesses.
“What we absolutely need to avoid is going back to April levels of infection spread – that would be much more difficult for our health service to manage, and would likely mean that we would have to go back into full lockdown.
“Up and down the UK – and across the world – governments have had to take tough decisions. These restrictions are temporary, but we need to stick with them for now in order to protect each other.”
