“Firms understand that a sharp spike in infection numbers require a swift response to protect public health. But news of a national lockdown will be a severe setback for Scottish companies trying to claw back losses from 2020 and vital trading over the Christmas period.
“Throughout the pandemic, businesses have adapted quickly to protect their customers and staff. They also know how difficult home schooling can be for working parents and will continue to support their people.
“There’s now an urgent need for existing financial support to be unlocked, so companies can survive the Spring and beyond, and for Holyrood to clarify guidance on what constitutes an essential business.
“Ultimately the best way to call time on this damaging cycle of restrictions and double down on efforts to protect people’s lives and livelihoods is through effective vaccine roll-out and widespread rapid mass testing.”