Additional police officers will be deployed throughout Edinburgh tonight as pubs and restaurants will close at 10pm.
Chief Constable Iain Livingstone has thanked public for the overwhelming level of support given to his officers bit warned those who flagrantly disregard the rules that his officers will enforce the law.
Speaking at the First Minister’s daily coronavirus briefing earlier today he said: “Tonight and over the weekend, pubs and restaurants must close at 10pm.
“Additional officers will be deployed across Scotland to support colleagues from Local Authorities and to monitor compliance.
“It’s important for me to say, the vast majority of licensees have acted with great responsibility during a very challenging period. I pay credit to them and policing will support and work with licensed trade.
“Officers will continue to use good sense and exercise the discretion that is integral to the office of Constable, working with the citizens we serve to support the implementation of these new rules.
“I would say to everyone in Scotland, please, work with us. Demonstrate personal responsibility and common sense, and play your part in the national effort to prevent the virus spreading.
“Policing is hugely thankful for the overwhelming levels of support, co-operation, and compliance we see from our fellow citizens every single day.
“However, there will always be a minority of people who flagrantly disregard the rules.
“From the outset of this emergency, on one fundamental issue, the consistent advice has been very clear. Indoor gatherings of people from multiple households can allow the virus to spread and should be avoided. As of now, there is a legal duty on us all, subject to legitimate exemptions, not to visit other people’s houses.
“And what is absolutely clear is that house parties and house gatherings are not permitted under any circumstances. There can be no excuse for arranging or attending a house party. You must not organise, host, or attend a house party. It is against the law.
“And where officers encounter blatant, wilful, persistent breaches we will act decisively. We will enforce the law.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
