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Nicola Sturgeon said the measures will be in place until October 26 at the earliest across the Central Belt of Scotland, with restaurants and pubs in coronavirus hotspots closing altogether.

The First Minister insisted the new policy would help contain and slow the spread of COVID-19 after a concerning spike in cases across the nation. But representatives from the hospitality

sector have slammed the decision, questioning the data behind the ban. Graham Baikie, the owner of The Mercat & Grill in Musselburgh, said: "I'm totally devastated.

"We're on a knife-edge here in Scotland in the licenced trade. "There's no doubt about it, life is important but I would actually like to know what percentage of patrons

who come into our reputable establishment pass the virus on to other people." Mr Baikie said he and other owners had invested "heavily" to ensure the safety of patrons ahead

of the reopening of his pub in the summer. JUST IN: DONALD TRUMP DISASTER AS DEMOCRATIC RIVAL WINS PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE – SHOCK POLL RESULTS He continued: "I know for myself I invested

heavily, as have a lot of reputable establishments. "I actually get passed compliments about how comfortable my customers feel and safe when they come in here." Hospitality bosses

have warned Ms Sturgeon has "effectively signed a death sentence for many businesses" as they insisted the "real problem" remains people socialising at home. Ms Sturgeon

insisted the current situation is "better than March" but insisted the Scottish Government and health officials should not be complacent about the coronavirus pandemic. READ MORE:

‘NO DEAL ONLY WAY FORWARD’ BORIS TOLD TO WALK AWAY AS EU PERSISTS WITH FISHING DEMANDS Ms Davidson continued: "What is very clear is that over the course of this there has been a

general acceptance in Scotland that these general public health measures just need to be followed. "I think we are getting to the point in Scotland now where people are looking for more

justification, information and they are looking to be trusted with what the rationale is for things that seemingly don't make sense." She added:"There’s a point where we have

to be able to see why we can go to a cafe and eat fish and chips for lunch but if you have a glass of wine it’s a public health threat. "But if you don't have a glass of wine in

the same seat, in the same cafe, it is not a public health threat. "People want to be trusted with more information about why these decisions are being made."