THE majority of Scots back Holyrood’s decision to reject the UK Government’s new coronavirus strategy, a new poll suggests.
Boris Johnson has ditched the “stay home” message in favour of “stay alert” as he actively encouraged people in England to go back to work if they cannot do so at home.
The move has been rejected by the devolved administrations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
A large-scale YouGov study has found that 60% of Scots oppose the UK Government’s change in strategy.
The same proportion believe the “changes go too far in relaxing the rules”.
READ MORE: People can’t get over how bad the UK Government’s new coronavirus slogan is
The new Downing Street advice is being promoted with the slogan “stay alert, control the virus, save lives”. In Scotland the message remains “Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives”.
An overwhelming 72% of Scots said that only the latter message makes it clear what they are supposed to do.
Just one in five thought both messages were clear, while only 2% thought only the UK Government’s new slogan was clear.
Writing in today’s National, the First Minister warns Number 10’s new slogan is “vague and imprecise, and dilutes the crystal clear call for people to remain at home”.
She adds: “Clarity of message is vital, and for that reason I have asked the UK Government not to deploy their Stay Alert ad campaign in Scotland.”
Commenting on the results of the survey, SNP shadow health secretary Dr Philippa Whitford MP said: "During this global pandemic it is vital that Governments provide strong and clear public health messages that are easy to understand and implement.
"The message in Scotland couldn't be clearer - stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.
"By following this advice we are preventing an increased risk of infection and saving lives. Together we are making progress. We must follow the rules to ensure it continues."
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