HERE is a full rundown of the new coronavirus curbs announced by Nicola Sturgeon yesterday, plus a reminder of those already in place and a look at what further restrictions could follow if infection rates continue to rise.
BAN ON VISITING OTHER HOUSEHOLDS
VISITING other homes is banned. The measure comes into force on Friday but the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has asked people to follow the rule from today.
The rule applies to both adults and children alike. There are a number of limited exemptions for those living alone or alone with children, who form extended households with other people including couples who do not live together.
A further exception to the rule is allowed for people needing someone to come into their home to look after children while parents are working. Such a service could be provided by grandparents or paid childminders or babysitters.
Tradespeople are also allowed into other people’s homes to carry out vital work.
CURFEW FOR PUBS, BARS AND RESTAURANTS
ALL outlets will be required to close at 10pm from Friday and to stick to that closing time over the coming weeks. The First Minister said further restrictions, including possible closures, will be “unavoidable” if social distancing and other measures are not followed.
CAR SHARING
THE Scottish Government is advising against travelling with another household in the same car.
FOREIGN BREAKS
THE First Minister is advising that people should not be looking to go on holiday overseas during the October school break.
MEASURES ALREADY IN PLACE WHICH CONTINUE
EVERYONE who can work from home, should work from home. The rule of six remains – people can meet up with a maximum of six people from one other household in public indoor places or outdoors.
Outdoors, children under 12 are exempt from these rules and do not have to socially distance.
A maximum of six 12 to 17-year-olds can meet in outdoor spaces, with no household limit. Physical distancing is still required however.
All of the restrictions listed above will be reviewed within three weeks and further guidance will be made available where necessary.
Indicative dates previously outlined for lockdown easing on October 5 – such as the return of fans to Scottish sports stadiums – are “unlikely to go ahead” on that date. Vulnerable people are not being asked to return to shielding.
Financial support of £500 will be made available for those on low incomes who have to self-isolate.
CIRCUIT BREAKER SHUTDOWN
THE First Minister told Holyrood that a so-called circuit breaker, or short period of nationwide lockdown, will be kept under review. It’s suggestions included the possibility of pub closures for two weeks, the closure of entertainment venues such as bingo halls and cinemas, and travel restrictions of five or 30 miles.
The document, obtained by a political news website earlier this week, also proposed a temporary stop on personal retail services such as hairdressers, beauticians or driving lessons; and restrictions on care home and hospital visiting.
READ MORE: Leaked 'circuit breaker' memo reveals Scottish pubs could close for two weeks
Referring to the circuit break plans during her statement, she told MSPs: “I also want to touch briefly today on an issue that has been the subject of media speculation in recent days – namely the possibility of a so called circuit breaker, timed to coincide with the October school break, and during which people would be given much more comprehensive advice to stay at home.
“The Scottish Government has not made any decision at this stage to implement such a policy – however, we are actively keeping it under review.”
On the latest curbs, Sturgeon said: “While these measures are tough, we believe they can make a significant difference while keeping our schools, public services and as many businesses open as far as possible. Early data suggests restrictions currently in place in west-central Scotland are starting to slow the increase of cases. So by extending household restrictions nationwide ... we hope it will help to bring ... the virus back under control.”
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