The Government has introduced a range of new measures to slow down the spread of coronavirus. 

From this evening people must stay at home except for shopping for basic necessities, daily exercise, any medical need to provide care or to help a vulnerable person and travelling to and from essential work.

Shops selling non-essential goods will also be shut and gatherings in public of more than two people who do not live together prohibited. 

If people do not follow the rules police will have the powers to enforce them, including through fines and dispersing gatherings. 

Speaking tonight First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said “Let me blunt, these restrictions on our normal day to day life are difficult and unprecedented. 

“These measures are essential to slow down the spread of the virus and prevent our NHS from being overwhelmed. 

“This is for the protection of each and every one of us. 

“People must now stay at home that is the clear message I gave yesterday. 

“People should only shop for necessities once a day. 

“Exercise once a day on your own or with your family. 

“Communal places within parks must close. 

“Social events must not take place. 

“The exception is funerals but we are asking they are restricted to immediate family only.

“Gatherings of more than two people will be prohibited unless it is a household or for essential work.

“As I said yesterday I want people to think of this as not as guidance or advice but a set of rules. 

“I fully expect that the vast majority of people will do the right thing.”Later this week we will have powers of enforcement and we will use them when necessary.

“Between now and the powers being in place Police will give strong advice but within days they will be in a position to issue fines. 

“I hope and expect that everyone understands that coming up with these rules in is the interest of all of us.”