SNP Deputy warns Scotland could face even tougher restrictions than Sturgeon announced
Scotland: SNP’s John Swinney warns of further restrictions
John Swinney told BBC Breakfast that the SNP Government does have further restrictions ready to be implemented if the latest coronavirus rules do not reduce the spread of COVID-19 across the country. This follows Nicola Sturgeon announcing six new restrictions during First Minister’s Questions on Wednesday.
Mr Swinney said: “There are further restrictions that could be applied but we do not want to have to go there.
“So I would encourage people to follow the restrictions that are in place as well the very strong guidance.
“There are routine and habitual things that we should be doing to try to stop the spread of the virus.
“If we all do those things then we can avoid more stringent restrictions.”
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On Wednesday, Ms Sturgeon outlined her six latest coronavirus restrictions in Scottish Parliament.
The SNP leader argued that the small additions and changes to current rules were essential in working towards stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Ms Sturgeon said: “Firstly, we intend to limit the availability and operation of click and collect retail services.
“Only retail services selling essential items will be allowed to offer click and collect.
“This will include clothes and footwear, baby equipment, books, all other click and collect services must stop.”
Nicola Sturgeon announces six new COVID-19 lockdown rules
She added: “Secondly, we intend to apply restrictions to take away services as customers will no longer be permitted to go inside to collect takeaway food or coffee.
“Any outlet wishing to offer takeaway will have to do so from a serving hatch or doorway.
“This is to reduce the risk of customers coming into contact indoors with each other.”
Ms Sturgeon continued: “Thirdly we intend to change the rules around the consumption of alcohol.
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“At the moment different parts of Scotland have different rules in regards to the consumption of alcohol in outdoor places however from Saturday it will be against the law in all level four areas.”
The SNP leader stated regarding other changes: “Fourthly and significantly we intend to strengthen the obligation on employers to allow their staff to work from home whenever possible.”
“Fifthly we will strengthen the provisions in relation to work inside people’s houses.”
Ms Sturgeon’s last rule was to target an apparent loophole that was being abused: “Right now the law states that people can only leave home for essential purposes.
“However, having left home for an essential purpose someone could then stay out of their home to do something that is not essential without breaching the law as it stands.”
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