In a joint statement yesterday, Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell and constituency MSP Oliver Mundell said: “We believe the measures taken in the Annan/Gretna area and surrounding postcodes are proportionate and appropriate in light of the local outbreak. Hopefully the Test and Protect arrangements will be able to identify all those that could be affected and the outbreak can be contained quickly. We urge all those contacted to give as full information as possible as that’s the best way to minimise the risk to others.”
South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said the announcement seemed “sensible” in response to the outbreak. He continued: “Until we know that the test and trace process has contained this outbreak, then a precautionary approach is needed and hopefully it will be lifted from Monday. The big challenge will be enforcement because the travel limit is only advisory and has never been the law. The Government can only appeal to people to follow the guidance and remain vigilant.
“This virus has not gone away. Not only should we continue to follow the travel restrictions but socially distance by keeping two metres away from others where possible, maintain high levels of hand hygiene and wear face coverings on public transport and in shops.”
In a joint statement, South Scotland MSPs Emma Harper and Joan McAlpine added: “While this is unfortunate news for the people of Dumfries and Galloway, everyone should be reassured that everything that can be done is being done by the Scottish Government and local public health officials to contain this outbreak. It is particularly unfortunate that this outbreak has happened while the rest of the country takes some further small steps out of lockdown. But we trust the people of Dumfries and Galloway to stick to the rules so we too can get back to a more normal way of life as soon as possible. If that means cancelling your planned trip across the border to visit a beer garden this weekend it’s a small sacrifice to help protect each other.”
And Dumfries and Galloway Green Party lead candidate Laura Moodie said: “The new local outbreak is very worrying, so I’m glad the First Minister has taken a cautious approach by keeping the five-mile limit here for the time being. Even before this new outbreak, it’s been a worrying time. Yesterday the Prime Minister claimed the border between Scotland and England didn’t exist, but the reality for people who live near it is we are paying the price for his government’s reckless approach to easing lockdown. I have spoken to so many people that feel frustrated and very concerned about people coming over the border into Dumfries and Galloway for holidays at a time when we are taking a much more cautious approach.”
