Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid has welcomed a cross-UK agreement on easing of Coronavirus restrictions for the Christmas period.
The UK Government and the devolved administrations have all signed off on an aligned approach, allowing up to three households to form a ‘Christmas bubble’ from December 23 to 27.
People will be able to travel across the UK without restriction for the five-day period for the purposes of meeting up with family. Those going to and from Northern Ireland will be given an additional day either side for travelling.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Michael Gove, chaired a COBR meeting yesterday and said the agreement would “offer hope” for families and friends after a “difficult year”.
Scottish Conservative MP for Banff and Buchan David Duguid said:
“I am very pleased that our governments across the UK have all agreed to follow the same approach for the Christmas period.
“This is important because many families are spread around the country, and will travel each year to and from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
“The British public have made huge sacrifices this year during the Covid-19 pandemic, and many of us will be looking forward to spending time with family and friends at Christmas.
“The short window of five days will allow a total of three households to mix, so your own household plus two others.
“I would urge everybody to abide by the rules and also to follow the guidance around Hogmanay.
“It will be difficult this year to give up the usual gatherings and parties to ring in the New Year, but we remain vigilant.
“That means observing social distancing and hygiene measures at all times and stick to the rules in your area.
“There is good news on the horizon with three vaccines now approved for use, but there is still a long way to go to get through the winter as safely as possible.”