Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has today warned against members of the wider public travelling to Perthshire during the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Swinney’s comments come after several constituents raised the issue of a large number of people travelling to rural Perthshire to try and escape the impact of COVID-19. These concerns were later backed up by social media photographs and media reports.

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

“Normally, such a large influx of people flocking to Perthshire would be cause for celebration. Sadly, however, we are living in extraordinary times.

“Accordingly, it is vital that people do not travel to the rural parts of Perthshire in an attempt to outrun or mitigate the effects of Coronavirus.

“Travelling to Perthshire puts significant strain on local retailers, could potentially spread the virus to the local populace and may put pressure on a rural health service that is not equipped to handle the number of people it subsequently would have to treat.

“The First Minister has been very clear that this behaviour is not acceptable, and I wholeheartedly endorse her message. I hope that anyone currently considering such a journey will reflect carefully upon the potential ramifications of their actions, and the impact it will have on their fellow citizens.”