What time is Nicola Sturgeon’s update today? When the First Minister will speak about phase two of Scotland’s lockdown - and how to watch

Nicola Sturgeon is expected to announce this afternoon that Scotland is moving to the second stage of the coronavirus lockdown exit plan.

The First Minister confirmed this morning on Twitter that further lifting of restrictions will be set out later today, with a “gradual opening” of businesses and public services and relaxing of some restrictions on personal lives - but all “consistent with continued suppression” of Covid-19.

The shift is anticipated following suggestions Scotland’s coronavirus outbreak is now under control, with the R rate of infection consistently below one and a sustained decline in cases.

Phase one of the four-stage strategy began three weeks ago, with rules on meeting family and friends, and travel being slightly relaxed.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is expected to announce this afternoon that Scotland will from tomorrow transit to phase two of the country's plan for lifting coronavirus lockdown

The transition will come as the number of Scots infected and dying from Covid-19 has continued to fall, with the latest daily figures showing 21 confirmed new cases and nine further deaths.

What time is Nicola Sturgeon’s announcement?

The Scottish leader will make her statement on easing the lockdown at her daily press briefing. This usually takes place at 12.30pm.

How can you tune in?

Watch live on Scottish Parliament TV and follow the First Minister’s Live YouTube Stream as well as the Scottish Government's official Twitter page - @scotgov. You can also follow The Scotsman’s live blog.

What is the First Minister expected to say?

The First Minister has said she is “optimistic” the country can move into phase two but any easing of restrictions must be done in a “cautious and phased” manner.

Not all of the changes are likely to be implemented immediately, with reopenings of some businesses and resumption of services likely to be staggered from tomorrow onwards.

Seeing family and friends

In the new phase people from more than two households may be permitted to meet up in larger groups outside, with physical distancing in place.

People may also be allowed to get together with family or friends indoors, providing it is considered safe to do so and physical distancing and strict hygiene measures are followed.

Work and business

Home-working will remain the default position for those who can, but non-essential, indoor, non-office-based workplaces such as construction sites, laboratories, factories and warehouses will be allowed to resume, with physical distancing.

Shopping, eating out and drinking

It’s anticipated that dates will be set out for the reopening of beer gardens and outdoor restaurants, open-air markets and non-essential shops, with distancing and hygiene measures implemented.

Travel

Driving locally for leisure and exercise purposes will be permitted and public transport will operate increased services, although this will still be limited to allow for physical distancing and face masks will be compulsory on trains.

Sport, culture and leisure

Playgrounds and sports courts will likely reopen with physical distancing, along with a resumption of professional sport in line with public health advice.

Gatherings and occasions

Registration offices will open for high-priority tasks and places of worship can open for private prayer, with social distancing and hygiene safeguards.

Marriages, civil partnerships and other types of ceremonies will also be allowed to take place with a limited number of attendees.

When is the next lockdown review?

The next lockdown review is due in three weeks - on 9 July.

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