Leitch urges Scots to ‘ keep nerve’ amid progress in Covid battle

SCOTS have been urged to “hold our nerve” because the coronavirus measures are working, although no part of the country is ready to move to the lowest level of lockdown.

National clinical director Jason Leitch told MSPs they can have confidence in the restrictions imposed but the “state of the pandemic nationally” means it is too risky to allow any area to be at Level 0 in the Government’s five- tier system of restrictions.

Giving evidence to Holyrood’s Covid- 19 Committee, Professor Leitch said transmission of the virus in hospitality settings and through social interaction is falling as a result of the latest bout of restrictions.

He added: “We’re going to have to hold our nerve and if we hold our nerve and the number [ of coronavirus cases] falls, we’ll be able to gradually release some of those more stringent restrictions.”

He said that two weeks ago, there was little evidence that the restrictions were working, but he told MSPs: “I think today, you can reassure [ constituents] that it is working.”

Scottish LibDem leader Willie Rennie asked what areas where coronavirus numbers are low have to do to move into the lowest tier of restrictions.

Prof Leitch said having the lowest number of cases per 100,000 according to the Government’s grading system, as well as having the lowest positive tests and the lowest hospital and intensive care admissions, is not enough for an area to be at Level 0.

He said travel and tourism risks also need to be taken into account.

The adviser also said the new rules that are due to come into effect from November 2 will have specific advice for people who were previously shielding and are most at risk.