Chamber and committees

The circumstances and progress of the epidemic varies between countries and countries adapt their response to suit their particular requirements. We look at a wide range of data from countries across the world, as we develop the approach to dealing with the pandemic that best meets Scotland’s circumstances.

The Scottish Government’s Strategic Framework sets out our approach to tackling the virus. Originally published in October 2020, we have updated the Framework to take account of developments in both how the virus has been spreading through new variants as well as the success so far of the vaccination programme. You can read it here: Coronavirus (COVID-19): Strategic Framework update - February 2021 - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Our aim remains to Suppress the virus to the lowest possible level and keep it there, while we strive to return to a more normal life for as many people as possible. The Framework sets out in detail how we will gradually emerge from the current lockdown restrictions.

We will use all the tools now at our disposal to restore greater normality. This doesn’t mean just the vaccine programme but restrictions where appropriate, the test and protect programme, further support for individuals and businesses with adherence to the measures in place, and continued strong and clear advice and guidance on how we should all behave.

The protective measures announced on 5 January have been effective but we must be cautious in our approach to avoid another rapid rise in cases. A gradual approach to easing restrictions will allow us to monitor the situation and take further preventative action if required.