SCC comment on the Scottish Government Covid-19 Strategic Framework Update – 22nd February 2022
Scottish Chambers of Commerce comment on the Scottish Government Covid-19 Strategic Framework Update
Dr Liz Cameron CBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce has commented on the publication of the Scottish Government’s updated Covid-19 Strategic Framework saying:
“This is a monumental moment for Scotland’s business community who will be greatly relieved to see the publication of the Scottish Government’s updated Covid-19 Strategic Framework.
“The removal of mandatory vaccine certification from 28th February followed by the expected removal of all other remaining legal measures on the 21st March will give Scotland’s economy a significant boost, drive up confidence and allow businesses to finally begin to trade again unencumbered.
“Businesses have invested millions throughout the course of the pandemic to keep their customers and employees safe. It’s therefore positive to see the Scottish Government put their trust back in businesses to manage the health and safety of workplace environments as Scotland adjusts to living and working alongside the virus.
“The new framework provides greatly improved clarity for businesses about the future of restrictions and will allow them to plan ahead now with increased confidence, however, without clear and definitive triggers, business will be concerned about what restrictions may be reimposed if another variant is to pose a significant threat.
“This updated framework should mark the end of a difficult chapter for Scottish businesses and give Scotland’s economy an improved shot at recovery, renewal and growth.”
On Vaccine Certification:
“The removal of vaccine certification requirements on businesses from the 28th February is welcome news for both businesses and consumers.
“SCC called for the Scottish Government to remove vaccine certification at the earliest opportunity, and this is a significant boost for those sectors subject to certification schemes.
“Vaccine certification acted as an economic deterrent, placing additional costs directly on to businesses, with no financial support being made available by government to support implementation.”
On COVID-19 Testing:
“Testing and contact tracing still has a vital role to play in helping businesses manage transmission and in protecting consumer confidence.
“Businesses want to see equitable access to testing continue to avoid additional cost burdens being potentially placed on them.
“It’s important that there is four-nations alignment on the lifting of restrictions wherever possible and testing arrangements are in place to support this.”
ENDS
