Jackie Baillie, MSP for Dumbarton, has called for the focus to remain on rebuilding the economy and protecting public health as the country moves into Phase Three of lockdown.

This follows the announcement made yesterday by Nicola Sturgeon which included a number of significant changes to lockdown restrictions. These changes allowed for a total relaxation in the distance that individuals can travel, the reopening of non-essential shops and the hospitality industry, the number of people who can socialise together and the ability for groups to gather inside.

Jackie Baillie MSP said:

“The significant relaxation in lockdown restrictions will come as a huge relief to many who have struggled over the last few months. Being able to travel further afield and to socialise more freely is certainly a welcome change. These changes also indicate a marked improvement in the extent to which Covid-19 is present within our communities. This will be positive news to many – particularly those who have been more vulnerable to infection during this time.

“It is also great to see businesses being able to begin trading again. I know that, particularly in my constituency, those who work within the hospitality and tourism sectors have really struggled as all business ceased back in March. The ability to reopen will go a long way in creating much needed funds and providing some sense of stability for their future.

“However, we are far from being out of the woods. We are only just beginning to understand the extent to which Covid-19 has impacted on our local and national economies. Businesses and organisations across sectors will continue to face huge uncertainties for many months to come. The Scottish Government must ensure that support is given to businesses and workers who are still struggling to cope at this time. I also can’t stress how important it is for people to continue to abide by all social distancing measures. Failing to do so will likely result in a second wave of infection and a reversal of these new freedoms.”