Scotland to increase virus restrictions in 11 areas

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced on Tuesday that eleven council areas would be placed into the nation's highest level of coronavirus restrictions for three weeks. Sturgeon told lawmakers in Parliament that the regions, which include Glasgow, would enter the level four measures from 6pm on Friday. Under those restrictions, non-essential businesses such as restaurants, bars, gyms and hair salons won't be allowed to trade until at least 11 December.

Non-essential travel into or out of the council areas will also be prohibited. However, schools will be able to stay open. In her address in Parliament, Sturgeon said that the level four restrictions were intended to be short and sharp. She said she desperately wanted to be able to ease restrictions before Christmas.