FIFE MSP Alex Rowley has said that the Scottish Government must put public health at the forefront of all measures designed to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Labour MSP issued the statement following the Phase-3 lockdown restrictions review from the First Minister in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday.

Commenting, Mr Rowley said: “The First Minister confirmed today that we are now seeing the highest number of new cases in almost three months.

“It is correct to have a cautious approach at this time of unprecedented difficulty for any Government. The cautious approach taking by the Scottish Government is welcome and it has my support.

“While it is clear that a balance needs to be struck - I am clear that the balance between wealth and health needs to rest on the side of health. It is right to protect our economy in any way we can, but it cannot come at the cost of people’s health. Those who are willing to put the economy ahead of people’s lives should have a long hard look at themselves".

Mr Rowley added: “I welcome the measures announced by the First Minister to give local authorities new powers over pubs, cafés and other premises that are breaching guidelines and risking transmission of the virus. These new powers will give councils the ability to close or impose restrictions on premises not following guidelines and the message should be clear - flout the rules and you will be closed.

“It is clear we are not yet by any means through this pandemic, and the increase in transmissions is a sobering reminder that we all need to play our part in doing all we can to minimise risk.”