Public urged to redouble efforts

Deputy First Minister John Swinney has warned people in Tayside not to get complacent after latest figures published by the National Records of Scotland showed the first weekly drop in virus-related deaths.

Across the NHS Tayside area in the last seven days a total of 34 people died with Covid-19 listed on their death certificate, a drop from 59.

NHS Fife confirmed 25 deaths this week, down from last week’s total of 33.

It is the first time the number of weekly virus-related deaths has decreased in both areas.

The most significant drops were in Angus, which saw a fall from 19 to seven; and Perth and Kinross, where the weekly total dropped by eight to five.

Dundee City recorded a decline from 27 to 22. Fife’s total was 33, compared to 25 the week before.

Politicians say the figures show restrictions are working, but have urged locals to maintain routine.

Mr Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, said: “Now is the time to redouble our efforts rather than ease off in our attempts to overcome Covid-19.”

Tory MSP Liz Smith, who represents Mid-scotland and Fife, said: “This shows that people are adhering to the lockdown advice by staying at home and saving lives.”

Pete Wishart, MP for Perth and North Perthshire, said: “If we allow ourselves to get lured into believing we have already beaten the virus then we will inevitably face a second peak.”

The NRS figures show there have been a total of 43 Covid-related deaths in Perth and Kinross, 49 in Angus, 107 in Dundee and 143 in Fife.

“This shows people are adhering to the lockdown advice... and saving lives. LIZ SMITH