First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has updated the Scottish Parliament in regards to ongoing Covid-19 public health measures. Her speech can be read in full here: https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-update-first-ministers-statement-2-february-2021/

Bruce Crawford MSP said:

‘This of course isn’t a welcome confirmation, but I know that most people will completely understand. We are simply not yet in a position to lift restrictions and undo the progress we have made in suppressing the prevalence of the virus in our communities.

‘I have been closely in touch with NHS Forth Valley, who are carrying out impressive work in the vaccine rollout. Over the next couple of days, all over-80s, health and social care workers, and care home residents in the Forth Valley will have received their first shot of the vaccine. By the end of this month, Scotland is on track for reaching all over-70s and those who are extremely clinically vulnerable too. This will go a long way in protecting our population from the virus, and gives us all cause for optimism.’

Alyn Smith MP said:

‘Looking at the data, the time clearly isn’t right to be lifting restrictions. If we do that now, the virus will spread and, at this stage of the vaccine rollout, that comes with the real risk of costing even more lives.

‘There is concern around new variants of Covid-19 that have emerged across parts of the UK, and this is cause for us all to take extra care not to put ourselves or others in danger of spreading the virus.

‘A big part of ensuring this is the case is in supporting those who have to come out of work to self-isolate in line with public health guidance and rules. I therefore welcome confirmation from the First Minister that anyone earning under the Living Wage will receive the £500 grant if they have to self-isolate. This will help with the cost of living, and will help families avoid the financial strain that so many have experienced in having to take time off work due to Covid.’