Tourism sector looks forward to reopening

and the industry.”

The Scottish Government taskforce is in addition to the £2.3 billion package of support for businesses across Scotland.

It includes measures specific to the tourism and hospitality industry, such as a full year’s non-domestic rates relief and specific grant schemes which are not available elsewhere in the UK.

Announcing the package, Mr Ewing said: “The coronavirus pandemic has presented challenges across the entirety of the Scottish economy, but it is very clear there are exceptional circumstances facing this sector that must be recognised.

“We have acted as quickly as we can to address the significant financial challenges faced by businesses and provide a comprehensive package of support.

“We are also pushing the UK government to do more, including a review of VAT rates and to consider extensions to schemes such as the coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

“I’ve been engaging with businesses since the beginning of the outbreak and I have heard their calls for more clarity which today I can provide.

“Businesses should start to prepare for a provisional return to trading – with appropriate safety guidelines – on July 15.

“This date cannot be definitive and is conditional on public health advice and progression to phase three of the route map.

“Businesses must now use this time to satisfy the necessary regulations and adapt to the new way of living.”