Commenting on the decision by the Scottish Government to South Ayrshire, East Ayrshire and 9 other council areas into Level 4 measures from Friday, Brian Whittle MSP said:
“For everyone who has worked so hard and stuck to the rules it will come as a huge disappointment to be moving to Level 4.
Over the past few weeks I’ve been worried by the number of reports I’ve had of people playing fast and loose with the rules and even holding house parties. Sadly, the actions of the small minority choosing to break the rules have consequences for us all.
This will be a devastating blow for local businesses, who were hoping the weeks up to Christmas would bring an increase in trade.
I’d encourage everyone to try and continue to give your local retailers support. Many will have telephone or online ordering and I’m sure they’ll be only too happy to see you in store when restrictions ease after the 11th of December.
Unlike the last lockdown, this time the weather is against us. I know getting outside for exercise will be less appealing at this time of year, but a bit of fresh air, even if it’s just a walk around the block, can benefit your physical and mental health over the next few weeks.
I hope that these restrictions will do what’s needed to get infection rates down and give us all the chance of seeing friends and family at Christmas. The First Minister has said these rules will be in force until the 11th of December; it would be massively disappointing if we get to that date and the Scottish Government move the goalposts.”
