CBI Scotland responds to latest review of COVID-19 restrictions

Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:

“While firms recognise that economic recovery can’t take place without a significant reduction in transmission, this latest announcement comes as a body blow for businesses across many parts of Scotland with the all-important festive trading period already upon us.

“Businesses, particularly in the hardest hit hospitality, retail and tourism sectors, have been told continuously that they must endure short term pain for long term gain. With many firms still operating under what were originally described as short, sharp restrictions, we now need a firm guarantee that the Scottish Government will stick to their timetable for lifting level 4 restrictions.

“Firms also want to see robust evidence that closing more businesses will reduce the level of transmission. Many companies will need a significant increase in support immediately if they are to keep their heads above water.

“With access to a vaccine still months away, the best tool at our disposal to protect lives and livelihoods is access to widespread rapid testing. Ramping this up must be a key priority for the Scottish Government if we are to avoid a damaging cycle of further restrictions.”