Major relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions as social distancing in small groups is to be abandoned while pubs and restaurants can serve alcohol indoors; Up to six people from three households can meet indoors and overnight from Monday

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed a major lifting of restrictions for the whole country from level three to level two restrictions, with the possible exception of Moray which has a higher number of Covid cases.

Announcing the measures, she said: "I actually feel a wee bit emotional saying this... from Monday, as long as you stay within permitted limits, you can hug your loved ones again.”

Scotlan moved down from level four to level three on April 26 that allowed the reopening of cafes, pubs and restaurants, gyms and non-essential shops that were still closed.

Now from Monday Under the level two restrictions the following activities will once again be permitted:

• Up to six people from three households will be able to meet in their homes and can also stay overnight
• Social distancing will also be suspended indoors so people can hug their loved ones
• Alcohol can be served indoors in pubs or restaurants and they can stay open until10.30pm
• Up to six adults from three households will be able to meet indoors in a public place
• Outdoors up to eight adults from eight different households to gather
• Adult outdoor contact sports and indoor group exercises will be able to resume
• Cinemas, bingo halls and amusement arcades are also likely to be able to reopen,
• Outdoor and indoor events like concerts can restart with limited capacity

More to follow...

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