Coronavirus in Scotland: Nicola Sturgeon says latest restrictions in the Central Belt are 'starting to have an effect'

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said today that while we are yet to see a decline in coronavirus figures, the restrictions in the Central Belt are beginning to slow the increase in case numbers.

Speaking at her daily coronavirus breiifng, the First Minister said: “The daily figures I have been reporting recently, as I indicated on Friday, suggest that these restrictions are starting to have an effect.

“We do think that the increase in case numbers is slowing, but it's not yet in decline which is why we can't be complacent.

"But we should take encouragement from the daily numbers at the moment because they suggest that the sacrifices that everybody is making are starting to work.”

Members of the public walk along Princes Street in Edinburgh. Nicola Sturgeon has said coronavirus restrictions are starting to have an effect

Ms Sturgeon reported that in the last 24 hours 1,122 people have tested positive for coronavirus in Scotland and one new death has been recorded.

Last week the Scottish Government extended the temporary lockdown measures imposed on pubs and restaurants on October 9 to last until 6am on November 2. The rules state that pubs and restaurants in the central belt have to remain closed and can only serve takeaway. Cafes in these areas have been exempt, provided they do not serve alcohol.

Mr Sturgeon added: “I think it's important for context for all of us to remember, given how tough all of this is, these decisions are ones that Scotland is facing in common with countries across Europe and of course across the world.

"Many countries are facing or having to impose, or reimpose tough restrictions. Especially on hospitality, as a second wave of covid takes hold.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon

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