Commenting ahead of the Covid statement to the Scottish Parliament tomorrow, Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: “The continued progress towards some form of normality is to be welcomed after Scotland being under restrictions for so long.

“But while this progress is welcome, it is clear that we are not out of the woods yet.

“Covid cases are increasing and are stubbornly high and our NHS remains under extreme pressure.

“For too long, the SNP government has turned its back on staff and patients as our NHS remains in crisis.

“This cannot continue. We need Test and Protect to continue to operate; testing to remain free and for anti-virals to quickly reach those who are immuno-suppressed in the coming months.

“Urgent action also needs to be taken to treat those with Long Covid as little has been done to resource the NHS to cope with the number of people affected.

“The SNP government must do the right thing and ensure Scotland’s NHS is properly supported as we emerge from restrictions.

“Failure to support our NHS risks a public health perfect storm – the SNP must act now.”