New coronavirus restrictions coming into force in Scotland from tomorrow

The Scottish Government has been forced to tighten some rules in the coronavirus fight as the number of new cases continues to rise.

New restrictions will be imposed in Scotland from tomorrow as the number of new coronavirus cases continues to increase.

Scottish Government officials announced that 244 people tested positive for Covid-19 over a 24-hour period on Sunday.

The figure is the highest number of confirmed cases since May 6, when infection rates from the virus were close to previous peak levels.

Nicola Sturgeon has been forced to tighten rules in the country as health officials express concerns over the recent numbers of new cases.

A string of restrictions are due to come into force from tomorrow.

Anyone over the age of 18 found to be in breach of the new rules could be issued with a fine of £60 (reduced to £30 if paid within 28 days).

If a person has already received a fine for breaching coronavirus rules, the amount will increase to £120 and double on each further repeat offence up to a maximum of £960.

Here's everything you need to know about the laws coming into play from tomorrow.

Social gatherings

The number of people allowed the meet both indoors and outdoors will reduce from Monday.

Previously, a total of 15 people from five households could meet outside while eight people from three households could come together indoors.

But this will now come down to six people from two households both in and out.

The new rules will apply in people’s homes and gardens as well as in hospitality and in public spaces, such as parks.

Children under the age of 12 will not be counted in this new figure, so you will be able to take young kids round to a pal’s house without worrying about breaking the new limit.

Face coverings

Indoor bars and restaurants will be subject to tightened rules on face coverings from Monday.

Customers and staff in indoor hospitality settings will have to wear face coverings when roaming around - including going to the toilet and waiting to take your seat.

Staff in non-front facing roles where a face covering may pose a health and safety risk, such as in a kitchen, will be exempt from the rules.

Customers will not have to wear a face covering when eating or drinking.

Exemptions for vulnerable groups and individuals will apply.

Parties in student accommodation

It has been against the law for Scots to host large-scale house parties within their homes since August 28.

The Scottish Government is now looking to extend this law over to student accommodation as people return to universities and colleges across the country.

Top news stories today

• Scots DJ running lockdown-busting raves
• Fighter jets intercept Russian aircraft
• Fury as woman avoids jail for sick crime
• Care home admits fault over death of dad

Such an extension of the law would mean that it would become an offence to attend a party in student accommodation.

The new law is planned to take effect from tomorrow.