Commenting on the decision to pause checks for those arriving from abroad, Scottish Labour’s Health and Covid Recovery spokesperson Jackie Baillie said:

“This report exposes what the SNP has been trying to deny – that test and protect is not fit for purpose.

“Importing of new strains of the virus from abroad is one of the biggest risks we face, particularly as international travel ramps up again.

“If test and protect is coping, as Ministers insist it is, then the decision to suspend checks is utterly baffling.

“The reality is the system is overwhelmed and corners are being cut as a result.

“The government must give test and protect the resources it needs to deliver its vital role and help keep us all safe.”