The Latest Breaking News from Nicola Sturgeon

The First Minister gave a much awaited decision on face mask rules today.

The First Minister told MSPs in the Scottish Parliament that due to the high number of cases across the country the rule would be kept in place until Easter.

Face masks will no longer be required in shops or on public transport from next month

But the requirement to wear them in shops and on public transport will continue until April 18.

The First Minister said the decision had been taken with 'common sense' in mind after the termination of the legal requirement to wear a face covering in public was pushed back for a second time

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed that the legal requirement to wear a face covering would end on April 18. Meanwhile, from this Monday, masks will no longer be required in places of worship, weddings, funerals, and other commemorative events.

The changes would begin on April 4 for places of worship and weddings, with the wider legal requirements for shops and public transport converted to guidance on April 18

Free covid testing in Scotland ends next month but the First Minister has urged the public to continue regular checks in the meantime.

The First Minister said the data shows the latest Omicron wave has peaked or is peaking

The First Minister made the announcement during a statement to Holyrood this afternoon.

The UK's chief scientific adviser gave his assessment of living with Covid as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon prepares to address Scotland on issues including wearing face masks.