FM Nicola Sturgeon has recalled parliament for tomorrow where a statement will be made on the expected tougher measures to slow the spread of the new strain.
The Education Recovery Group will also meet tomorrow in advance of Cabinet to consider the current advice in relation to schools and early learning.
FM Nicola Sturgeon, said the following on Facebook this morning:
"The rapid increase in Covid cases, driven by the new variant, is of v serious concern. The steep increases & severe NHS pressure being experienced in other parts of the UK is a sign of what may lie ahead. So we must take all steps to slow spread while vaccination progresses."
"We, like other countries, are in a race between this faster spreading strain of Covid and the vaccination programme. As we work to vaccinate as quickly as possible, we must also do more to slow down the virus - to save lives & help the NHS care for all those who need it."
"All decisions just now are tough, with tough impacts. Vaccines give us way out, but this new strain makes the period between now & then the most dangerous since start of pandemic. So the responsibility of government must be to act quickly & decisively in the national interest."
"For now, please continue to take Covid seriously - it is a real threat to life and health and, if it runs out of control, it damages the economy more too.
Please stay at home as much as possible and avoid non essential interactions with other households. Thank you."