Scots most at risk face no let-up in shielding until the end of July

The 180,000 Scots at most risk from dying from Covid-19 will have to continue shielding at home until the end of next month, Nicola Sturgeon has said.

Vulnerable people in the shielded category are likely to be prevented from meeting up with friends and family until July 31, with most of the tight restrictions governing their lives remaining in place until then.

The announcement was made despite Scotland recording a second day in a row without any new Covid-19 deaths.

Ms Sturgeon said she understood people would be disappointed by the extension to the shielding period.

But she argued the decision had been taken to keep protecting them from the disease.

There was, however, a glimmer of respite for those who have been stuck inside shielding. From next Thursday, it is hoped they will be allowed outside for unlimited exercise unless they are living in a care or residential home.

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We are taking the proper steps to consider this carefully and we will continue to do that. NICOLA STURGEON

But they will not be allowed to play golf or tennis, go to their workplace or meet up with other households.

Those restrictions will stay in place despite shielded people south of the border, who live alone, now being allowed to meet one other person from another household provided they social distance.

Ms Sturgeon appeared to take issue with the new English guidance on shielding when asked why Scotland appeared to be behind other parts of the UK on the issue.

“We didn’t do what the UK Government did last week because we didn’t think that had been thought through enough and we didn’t think the way that had been communicated was proper,” she said.

“We are taking the proper steps to consider this carefully and we will continue to do that.

“And if we are asking people to restrict the way in which you live your life it is for your protection.”