‘Issues’ with test-booking system as patients directed to England

“Issues” with the coronavirus test booking system have emerged after a weekend of high demand, Nicola Sturgeon has said.

Some people from Scotland appeared to have been wrongly directed to testing centres in England, the first minister said.

Officials are looking into the cause of the problems, which Ms Sturgeon said may be a Ukwide phenomenon.

The first minister said the testing system was “working well” and asked people to “bear with us” as the issues were resolved.

Asked about the problems at the Scottish Government’s regular coronavirus briefing, Ms Sturgeon said: “I am aware of some issues with the booking system this morning.

“We have seen exceptional testing demand over the weekend and therefore we are looking right now at how we ensure that demand is properly and appropriately managed.”

She said officials were still looking into the issues, but people in Scotland may have been “erroneously” directed to testing centres in England rather than the next available slot in Scotland.

The first minister continued: “Our testing system is obviously working, it’s working well, but as demand increases or at periods of high demand bear with us as we resolve and understand any particular issues.”

Dr Gregor Smith, Scotland’s interim chief medical officer, said anyone with coronavirus symptoms should immediately book a test and self-isolate.

Those who are not showing symptoms should only book a test if they have been advised to do so by the Test and Protect team, he added.