COVID passport extension a possibility as businesses urged to reconsider working from home

The Scottish Government is to consider extending its vaccine passport scheme to include a broader spectrum of businesses.

This was confirmed by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, this Tuesday afternoon, as she unveiled a new strategic framework which will guide the Government’s decision-making on COVID-19 restrictions.

Ms Sturgeon said that, amid mounting cases nationwide, consideration would be given to extending the country’s COVID Vaccine Certification Scheme. She explained that a formal decision on this would be announced next Tuesday, and that consultation with businesses would take place later this week.

The First Minister said that extension of the scheme is likely to include a broader scope of businesses, such as indoor cinemas, theatres and other hospitality venues. This would mean that, save for limited exemptions, these venues would require members of the public to provide proof of vaccination before entry. She said that the scheme may also begin to accept proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test as an alternative to the vaccine passport.

Ms Sturgeon, who said that while she hoped to keep businesses across Scotland open throughout the winter, the Government has not completely ruled introducing harsher restrictions should the COVID-19 situation worsen. She has urged all business owners and employers to think carefully and “look again” at whether their employees can be supported to work from home, this winter.

“While we hope we will get through winter without introducing further restrictions, we do have a duty to keep proportionate options under review,” she said.

“We are publishing an updated strategic framework today, covering some of the issues have already summarised.”

Finally, the First Minister urged the nation to stick as closely to the current guidance as possible in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This includes undertaking a lateral flow test twice-weekly, and PCR testing if you develop symptoms, have a positive lateral flow or are contact traced.

She also appealed to all those who have not yet taken up a COVID-19 vaccine, and are eligible, to please do so. This includes those who are invited to receive a booster.

When it comes to gatherings, the Ms Sturgeon has asked everyone to remain cautious and sensible, and to ensure that indoor venues are well-ventilated.