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Friday, March 29, 2024

UK Emergency Bill to Support Wider Efforts to Tackle Coronavirus

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Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, Europe and External Affairs Michael Russell (pictured) has responded to a paper published by the UK Government outlining measures to be contained in the forthcoming Coronavirus Bill at Westminster.

Mr Russell said:

“This Bill is the result of intensive work between the UK Government and the devolved administrations, and is necessary because of the unprecedented public health and economic challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

“The measures it contains cover a range of topics and sectors, including bespoke provisions for Scotland.

“Combined with measures already being taken by the Scottish Government and our partners, it will help ensure our health and social care services remain effectively resourced, protect people and assist in slowing the spread of coronavirus.

“In addition to the immediate priority of assisting our health and social care services, the Bill also contains provisions relating to statutory sick pay which are aimed at ensuring that the economic impact on small businesses and individuals is lessened.”

“I should emphasise that creating additional, time-limited powers through this Bill does not mean that all of them will be used.

“Decisions will be taken at the appropriate time, based on the situation in Scotland and elsewhere in the UK.”

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