Nicola Sturgeon announces review of Scots 2-metre distancing rule as lockdown eased
The First Minister revealed she has sought fresh scientific advice on the issue and will receive a report ahead the planned restart of the country's tourism industry in mid-July.
The move was welcomed by business leaders who say the measure must be relaxed for many hospitality firms and shops to remain viable.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe Scottish Government’s Advisory Group on physical distancing requirements is to conduct the review.
"I will not change this guidance without rigorous consideration and appropriate assurance," Ms Sturgeon told MSPs today.
"However, I have asked our advisers to consider whether there are particular settings and circumstances in which, with additional mitigations, it might be possible in future to recommend a distance of 1 or 1.5 metres.
"I hope to also have this advice within two weeks and will report on it then."
At the moment, the strict two metre rule remains in force.
Liz Cameron, chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce welcomed the move.
"Clearly current physical distancing limits at 2m is unsustainable for many businesses so we welcome the fact that this is being reviewed, with recommendations due within the next 2 weeks," she said.
"We would suggest that the review be extended to consider the scientific evidence as adopted by many other countries together with the advice from the World Health Organisation.
"We all know that science can never be exact so it is important that a broader analysis and view is sought from others before final decisions are taken."
A message from the Editor:
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our advertisers - and consequently the revenue we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.Subscribe to scotsman.com and enjoy unlimited access to Scottish news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Visit https://www.scotsman.com/subscriptions now to sign up.
Our journalism costs money and we rely on advertising, print and digital revenues to help to support them. By supporting us, we are able to support you in providing trusted, fact-checked content for this website.
Joy Yates
Editorial Director
Comments
Want to join the conversation? Please or to comment on this article.