Responding to the First Minister’s announcement of additional indicative dates for easing lockdown, Russell Borthwick, chief executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce said:
“It’s undoubtedly positive to see the Scottish Government outline some further dates on the reopening of businesses and the path out of lockdown. Although many of these dates are of course indicative, this additional detail on the routemap will help firms put their reopening plans into practice, something the Chamber has been asking for a number of weeks. It’s also welcome to see the Scottish Government aim towards a more ambitious school re-opening plan in the months ahead, as getting these critical interdependencies right are vital if our economy is to recover quickly from the COVID crisis.
“It’s vitally important that the Scottish Government keeps up the pace, tied to progress in controlling the virus, and looks to accelerate the provision of this vital detail where possible. As an example, the review into the two-metre distancing rule is crucial but with this expected by July 2 it leaves limited time for certain firms, such as those in outdoor hospitality, to reflect any changes in their plans. Broadly though, this guidance will give further assurance to firms that we’re on the right track, and the focus must now be on restoring consumer confidence and getting customers back into local businesses.”
The full measures announced by the Scottish Government can be viewed here.