CBI Scotland responds to First Minister's latest statement on Covid-19 restrictions

Tracy Black, CBI Scotland Director, said:

“It’s clear we’re entering a new phase of the pandemic: living with the virus. Instilling a sense of confidence as we move to level 0 then beyond – both for businesses and the public – is now crucial.

“Developing a more agile and responsive test and release system for self-isolation will be a key part of that. The removal of the requirement for contacts of positive cases to isolate from 9 August is welcome, but Covid-related absences are hitting firms hard now and impacting their ability to trade their way to recovery.

“The Scottish Government should work with the hardest hit sectors to introduce a test and release scheme as swiftly as possible.

“The removal of the requirement for double-jagged people to isolate when arriving from amber list countries will provide a much-needed boost to the travel industry. This consistent approach across the UK to reopening international travel will provide welcome clarity, not only for the travel sector but for the public as well.

“Many firms that have been planning carefully for the safe, phased reopening of offices from next week will be disappointed to see the work from home message remain in place. The reality is that many firms are well advanced in their plans and are proceeding with hybrid working models.

“It’s up to employers to engage positively with staff to shape the new and unique ways of working every business now needs to consider. Clear communication and guidance from the Scottish Government on new support for workplace testing in Scotland will help those who want to add an extra layer of security for their staff as they reopen their office doors.

“It is now mission critical that the Scottish Government, with the support of business, does all it can to build confidence in the reopening.”