Scotland will not be expanding vaccine passports to pubs, cinemas and theatres, Nicola Sturgeon has announced.

There had been speculation that the scheme would be extended but today the first minister told MSPs “we have decided not to extend the scope of the scheme”.

She said the Scottish government had taken into account the situation being “precarious” but that cases were currently stable and slightly declining.

She also said ministers had considered the inevitable impact on operation of businesses.

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland strengthened its message that people should work from home where possible.

In a statement, the Stormont government said: “Our collective aim is to reduce pressure on our hospitals, while allowing our society and the economy to remain open as fully and safely as possible.

“That means we all need to take action to prevent a worsening of the situation that would potentially require more severe measures.”

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