Lockdown in Scotland to continue until end of the month, Nicola Sturgeon announces

Lockdown restrictions in Scotland will remain in force until at least the end of February, Nicola Sturgeon has announced.

The Scottish Government previously said the lockdown for Level 4 areas – mainland Scotland and some islands areas – would last until at least mid-February.

Ms Sturgeon said depending on progress “we may be able to look at a careful and gradual easing at around the start of March”.

Schools in Scotland will return on a phased basis from February 22 subject to final confirmation in two weeks’ time.

Speaking at the Scottish Parliament, the First Minister also announced plans to introduce a managed quarantine requirement for anyone who arrives directly into Scotland, regardless of which country they have come from.