SCOTLAND will be hit with tighter coronavirus restrictions after Christmas as the omicron variant continues to drive a sharp increase in cases across the country, the Scottish government confirmed today.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told MSPs during a Holyrood statement that people in Scotland should minimise their socialising on New Year as the SNP leader said the public should keep their contacts with other households to a minimum. 

More restrictions in hospitality and event venues will be introduced from December 27, with a limit put on public events. 

This will include capping attendance at football matches to 500 people. 

Ms Sturgeon said: “I know how unwelcome this will be for everyone — but we believe these precautionary steps will help us navigate a difficult period more safely.”

The announcement came as Rishi Sunak has offered a £1 billion support package, with around £80 million set for Scotland to supplement £200m announced by the Scottish government. 

Politicians in Scotland hit out at the support being offered from the Chancellor, with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar calling for both governments to go further. 

He said: “There must be an increase in the level of statutory sick pay, more significant financial support for impacted businesses and the self-employed and for the sectors that are shut down, and a furlough type scheme so we don’t have businesses going bust and thousands becoming unemployed.

“Here in Scotland the money on offer will go nowhere near covering the losses over Christmas.

“The Scottish and UK governments must develop a framework and triggers for when restrictions will kick in, what they will be and what financial package of support will come with it.”