Readers react to suggestions that English visitors to Scotland could be quarantined

According to a report in The Sunday Times, Scottish ministers are considering isolation and fines for English visitors.

The paper has reported that Scottish Government sources say there is fear that the tourism season could undo the progress Scotland has made in suppressing the virus.

The suggestions could mean visitors from England could be told to go into quarantine for two weeks or face a fine if cases of Covid-19 south of the border rise again.

The report has met with mixed opinions in Edinburgh, where some strongly support the measures, and others oppose them.

“I wish we could close the border to protect our population and our NHS,” wrote Cat Menzies, “No deaths for 3 days, and all these tourists are going to put that at risk.”

Helen Banham agreed, writing: “Brilliant idea. We don't need the hard work done by Scots taken back to square one again.”

But Facebook user LC Hastie pointed out the challenge the move could cause for the economy.

“What about the lorry drivers, workers delivering across the UK they cross the border daily/ buy food etc? Seriously, they can’t enforce quarantine,” he wrote.

Michael Stimson opposed the suggestions too, writing: “My passport clearly states on the cover 'United Kingdom Of Great Britain'. Scotland does not control the UK borders so they are unable to prevent anyone from moving freely within the UK.”

Paul Clarkson suggested that there should be testing at the border instead. “Should be testing set up at every entry point,” he wrote, adding: “If the Channel Islands can get test results within 12 hours, no reason we can’t up here too.”

Audra Jane Hall, however, called it: “Best idea I've heard!”

But Lyndy Dean pointed out that many people have been separated from their families across the border for months.

“I have waited seven weeks to meet my new grandson in Halifax, obeying every rule,” she explained, “this would just about tip me over the edge.”

But Maureen Cummings thought the risks were too great. “Keep the English where they are,” she argued, “They are going to get a second wave shortly.

“We don’t need it here. We’ve done so well.”

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