Scotland freedom day: What time is Nicola Sturgeon speaking today?

Scotland’s own ‘Freedom Day’ is imminent, with all remaining major coronavirus restrictions expected to be lifted in the country on 9 August.

While Scotland moved to ‘level 0’ on July 19, a few restrictions remained in place. Namely, nightclubs remained closed and sporting events aren’t operating at full capacity.

Social distancing rules remain in place and mask wearing is still mandatory in the country.

Today, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is set to give an update on the expected ‘Freedom Day,’ confirming whether it will be pushed forward, set back or will go ahead as planned.

Ms Sturgeon has previously said she feels optimistic that Freedom Day will be able to go ahead.

Where and when is Nicola Sturgeon speaking?

The First Minister is expected to make her update at 2pm today at Holyrood.

She will address MSPs in a virtual setting.

Where can I watch the announcement?

The announcement will be broadcast live on the BBC and on the Scottish Government Twitter feed.

What is Sturgeon expected to announce?

Ms Sturgeon is expected to announce that Scotland will move beyond ‘level 0’ on August 9, with most restrictions disappearing.

She has said that some minor restrictions may stay in place, such as mask-wearing in certain settings.

It is possible that she could adjust the date of Freedom Day depending on the situation with coronavirus cases in the country.

Yesterday, on August 2, Scotland repaired 799 new cases of coronavirus and one death.

Some 407 people were in hospital yesterday with recently confirmed coronavirus.

Fifty-nine percent of the country is now fully vaccinated.