Nicola Sturgeon has said she remains optimistic that Scotland's lockdown easing will still go ahead as planned despite a recent surge in covid cases.
The First Minister announced at a media briefing in Edinburgh today there was initial evidence that the number of infections being reported was beginning to level off.
The SNP leader will make a statement at the Scottish Parliament next Tuesday where she is expected to confirm that all council areas will be placed at Level 0 of lockdown from July 19 onwards.
But, unlike England, that means social distancing rules and requirements to wear face coverings will remain in place for at least a further three weeks from that date.
Scotland's so-called Freedom Day - when all social distancing rules end - is not due to take place until August 9.
"Our vaccination progress should make us optimistic," Sturgeon said.
'For now that optimism needs to be balanced by concern at the high case numbers we have seen recently, a pattern that is increasingly evident in other countries as well.
"On the upside, looking at the figures reported over the past few days, we can see the suggestion that the recent surge in cases may be to some extent levelling off now."
It comes as Scotland reported 2,802 positive cases yesterday, eight per cent of the total carried out. The number of patients with covid in hospital rose by 14 to 401, with 38 in intensive care units.
The First Minister continued: "Today's reported figure, for example, represents 1,432 fewer cases than were reported on this day last week. Similarly, if we look at the seven day average, there does appear to be a slow down in the rise in positive cases."
She added: 'While we need to monitor this in the days to come, that is encouraging news. But obviously, case numbers remain high and that is concerning.
"It is true we can't lead a restricted way of life forever, as that itself affects our health and wellbeing."
Do you think Sturgeon is right to be optimistic about Scotland's lockdown easing going ahead as planned despite the recent rise in covid cases? Join the conversation in the comments section.
