Local MSP, Maree Todd, SNP has said the the new measures contained in the UK Coronavirus Bill will enhance Scotland’s response to COVID-19 and strengthen frontline service.

Maree Todd said:

“Scotland is effectively in lockdown. Stringent steps have been taken to suppress – as far as we can – the spread of the virus. The aim of the delay phase will be to slow the spread of the disease so that we can lower its peak and thereby enable our national health service to cope with it better.

“The Coronavirus Bill contains a number of additional powers that would not be considered if not for the extreme seriousness of the challenge that we now face.  Of course, we hope that police enforcement won’t be necessary, but it’s important that the police can impose restrictions if and when required.”

The latest measures put in place by the Scottish Government on Monday mean the only permissible reasons to leave your home now are as follows:

• To shop for necessities but only once a day, at the most
• To take exercise, alone or with your household, not in groups and no more than once a day
• For medical reasons, for yourself or if providing care or support for a vulnerable person
• To travel to essential work if it absolutely cannot be done from home

Maree Todd continued:

“Islanders are made of strong stuff and I know we will get through this. I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone on the frontline, from doctors to nurses, care assistants to pharmacists, police to shop workers and of course, to the community volunteers who are also providing a lifeline service to vulnerable people in their community.”

Police Scotland now have the power to enforce restrictions. People who do not  comply with the rules set out by the Scottish Government could be subject to prohibition notices, on the spot fines and if necessary, prosecution.

For the latest updates on Coronavirus from NHS Scotland visit: www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus

 If you’re experiencing symptoms of Coronavirus phone NHS 24 on 111.

Related link: Sweeping New Government Powers – The Coronavirus Act