Nicola Sturgeon told all shops in Scotland selling non-essential items to close immediately to assist efforts to halt the spread of coronavirus. In a press conference, the First Minister also signalled that emergency powers currently being put into legistlation will be used to shut down any pubs, cinemas and gyms that continue to remain open.
There was concern over the weekend as good weather brought crowds of people to the coast and parks. Rural communities reported thousands of visitors arriving a Loch Lomond and The Trossachs.
Today, Nicola Sturgeon restated: “Life should not be normal for you right now. If it is you are not doing the right things”.
Addressing new measures, she said: “My message today to shops still open is this and it is clear … if you are not providing essential items like food and medicines then please also close now.”
“I have used the word ”advice” but I want to repeat … this is not to be seen as optional” she said.
“What I am about to set out should be considered rules we are expecting people to comply with.”
“This is important because if we all comply with these measures we will help to protect ourselves, we will help to protect our families and loved ones, we will help to protect our NHS and the country as a whole.”
“And we will reduce the number of people who die from this virus.”
In further remarks shes said: “I want to reiterate that if you run a business and if the nature of your business makes it difficult for you or your workers to work from home or to practice safe social distancing then you should close.”
She added: “This morning I was asked on radio about building sites and hair salons and my advice would be to close.”