The Scottish Government has confirmed that people can continue to travel across the border for essential shopping amid rumours of people being stopped by police.
Reassurance was sought after a number of people contacted their local politicians when they heard about people being stopped by police.
There are travel restrictions in place that limit people in the Scottish Borders from travelling to higher level areas in Scotland, such as Edinburgh. The travel restrictions also control travel to England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
However, there are a number of important exceptions to the travel ban. These allow essential shopping (food and medical supplies), going to work, attending a healthcare appointment, attending a wedding or funeral, amongst a range of other reasons.
This allows, for example, people living in Berwickshire to travel to Berwick-Upon-Tweed for their supermarket shop.
Despite these exceptions, a number of people were concerned about receiving a fine for travelling.
However, a Scottish Government minister confirmed that travel was allowed for essential purposes. Under questioning at the Scottish Parliament’s Covid-19 Committee, Michael Russell MSP, said: “Essential shopping is an exemption and therefore if people are undertaking essential shopping then that exemption would apply.”
John Lamont MP: “The regulations have been clear to me since the beginning that you can travel outwith the Scottish Borders for essential shopping or to look after a loved one.
“However, a number of people have been in touch with me who had heard that the police were stopping and fining people.
“I am glad that the Scottish Government has clarified that it is acceptable to travel to England for your shopping if your nearest supermarket happens to be over the border.
“This will also give peace of mind to people who care for a vulnerable relative or friend, but they do not live in the Scottish Borders.
“I have also written to Police Scotland, Northumbria Police and British Transport Police to understand how they are monitoring this situation.”
Rachael Hamilton MSP added: “Throughout the pandemic, people have contacted me with concerns that they would be breaking the rules by travelling into England for essential purposes.
“The clarification on the guidance from the Scottish Government is welcomed and provides reassurance.
“Essential shopping, going to work or attending a medical appointment are some examples of exceptions to the travel ban.
“We know that it isn’t as simple as stopping travel into England for Borderers, our area is very interlinked with Northumberland, particularly around Berwick.”
