THE First Minister has announced changes to lockdown rules in Scotland.

As the country moves from phase 2 towards phase 3, Scots are being issued new guidance on social distancing, travel rules and face masks.

Speaking during the Scottish Government's daily coronavirus briefing, Nicola Sturgeon said as people start to interact more it is "vital we take steps to reduce risks".

On social distancing measures, she said sticking to the two-metre rule has "serious economic implications".

From the end of next week, exceptions would be allowed for specific sectors – hospitality, retail and public transport – to operate within a one-metre distance with mitigation measures, which could include outdoor seating, plastic screens, one-way systems and improved ventilation. 

But the general rule in law will be that businesses must take reasonable measures to ensure two-metre distancing is maintained. For instance pubs and restaurants may have to keep customers seated when they re-open and turn off background music to discourage shouting.

READ MORE: Face coverings to be mandatory in Scotland's shops

Here is the full list of changes to lockdown rules.

  • Face masks will be mandatory in shops from July 10. There will be exemptions for children under five and people with certain medical conditions.
  • Outdoor hospitality – such as pavement cafes and beer gardens – can open from Monday July 6.
  • Self-contained holiday accommodation, such as cottages and lodges, can reopen from tomorrow, July 3.
  • The Scottish Government is also lifting the guidance advising people not to travel more than five miles for leisure from Friday – although this will not apply to parts of Dumfries and Galloway where there is a cluster of Covid-19 cases.
  • From 10 July, children under the age of 11 will no longer need to physically distance outdoors so they can play with their friends. However, families and children must continue to meet in groups of eight or less and physical distancing should still be maintained indoors.

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