Sturgeon says Scotland not following England’s easing of ‘shielding’ rules

Nicola Sturgeon said Scotland will not follow a move by the Westminster government to ease lockdown restrictions for vulnerable people who have been “shielding” from coronavirus.

The first minister said there would be no change in the guidance “at this stage”, following reports that the rules would be relaxed in England to enable people in that category to go outside for the first time in months.

On the Sophy Ridge on Sunday show on Sky News, Ms Sturgeon said: “This virus hasn’t gone away, there is still a significant risk that it could run out of control again, that’s why in Scotland we are moving very slowly, very cautiously.

“We have just gone into phase one of our route map out of lockdown, and that expressly recognises that in that phase there is a significant risk that the epidemic is not fully contained.”

About 2.2 million people in England are considered “extremely vulnerable” to the virus and have been advised to “shield” themselves.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now said those shielding from Covid-19 in England would be able to spend time with other people outdoors.

In England, those considered extremely vulnerable will be able to go outside with members of their household from today, while following social distancing guidelines.

And those who live alone can meet outside with one other person from another household.

Phil Anderson, head of policy at the MS Society, said people would want to hear the scientific evidence behind the decision.

He said: “Over 130,000 people live with MS in the UK and thousands of them have been left feeling forgotten after months of shielding.

“While for some it may be a relief that this relaxation is happening in

England others have been left feeling confused.

“We’re extremely concerned this news has come out of the blue – people who are extremely vulnerable will rightly want to hear a lot more about the scientific evidence showing this will be safe for them.”

Steven McIntosh, director of policy at Macmillan Cancer Support, said the decision was “a step forward” for a group who “have felt left behind and forgotten” as lockdown is eased for others in England.

He said: “For many, it’ll be welcome advice that they can now choose to go outside for exercise or to meet people whilst socially distancing.

“But they still face heavy restrictions like being advised to avoid food shopping, going to pharmacies or their workplaces.

“The government also hasn’t yet delivered its commitment to provide greater help to this extremely vulnerable group.”