In a statement to the Scottish Parliament, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has indicated that current coronavirus restrictions are unlikely to be lifted at the end of the month.
Andrew McRae, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Scotland policy chair, said: “Any unlocking delay comes with consequences for Scottish businesses and jobs. Hospitality and tourism firms face further weeks of restrictions which make it difficult to cover their overheads, never mind pay down their debts. We must remember that nightclubs, softplay centres and much of the events industry remain unable to trade at all.
“That’s why the bare minimum FSB expects is for state support to be proportionate to the scale of the restrictions. It would be unforgivable if governments in Edinburgh and London wound down the help on offer for firms while prolonging their difficulties.”