Sturgeon ‘playing nationalist politics’ as Scotland reveals lockdown easing
NICOLA Sturgeon was accused of playing nationalist politics instead of seeking UK-wide unity as she revealed Scotland’s road map out of lockdown yesterday.
The First Minister’s plan differs greatly from Boris Johnson’s for England, which he announced on May 10.
Under Ms Sturgeon’ rules, households will be allowed to mix in “small numbers” in their gardens from next week.
This suggests people will be able to have barbecues with friends and family. But in England, people can only mix outside with one person from another household.
North of the border, outdoor exercise and some sports will be permitted, with people allowed to sit in parks and sunbathe, as in England. However, schools will not start reopening until at least August 11 – after Scotland’s summer break.
Ms Sturgeon also said: “Waste and recycling services will resume, as will many outdoor businesses, such as agriculture and forestry. The construction industry will be able to carefully implement steps one and two of its six-step restart plan, which it has developed with us. However, let me be clear there must be genuine partnership with trade unions – this can only be done if it is done safely.” Scotland is the last of the four parts of the UK to publish specific plans on easing the lockdown. Schools in England are set to reopen from the beginning of next month under Mr Johnson’s plans.
Tory MP Andrew Bridgen accused Ms Sturgeon of using the Covid-19 crisis to make life awkward for the Prime Minister. He said: “She seems intent on having a different policy to Boris Johnson. While she is playing her nationalist politics, she would do well to remember that this is about people’s lives. “She appears willing to sacrifice the Scottish people on the altar of nationalism.”