CBI Scotland responds to Scottish Government's lockdown exit route map

Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:

"Businesses across Scotland will welcome the publication of a route map for economic restart that puts safety first. Unless people feel safe, employees won't return to work, customers will stay away and the restart will falter, putting people’s livelihoods at further risk.

“The four phases outlined provide a helpful starting point for firms preparing for the restart and already working hard to ensure their operations are as safe as possible for staff and customers. For the Scottish construction industry, which has been hit so hard by the crisis, the resumption of activity in phase one will come as a significant relief.

“While businesses recognise that timings may vary based on scientific evidence, the principles and guidance that underpin the restart should be transparent and as consistent as possible across the UK. With the UK Government having already provided a helpful template looking at workplace settings, firms will be keen to see an acceleration of specific workplace guidance for Scotland that follows the same approach.

"Like the rest of the UK, Scotland faces months of change and challenge. A unified approach to reopening the economy – involving both governments, business and employee representatives – is vital to instilling public confidence and getting the economy back on its feet.”