Vaccine certificates proposed to avoid Covid restrictions in winter

Vaccine certificates are to be introduced for large events in Scotland, subject to parliamentary approval, later in September.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the move would be an important step in helping to stem the tide of Covid which has risen dramatically in the last month.

People will be required to prove they have received both doses of the vaccine before attending unseated indoor events with more than 500 people, unseated outdoor events with more than 4,000 people and any event with more than 10,000 people.

People who wish to attend nightclubs or other adult venues will also be required to show a vaccine certificate, but it will not be necessary for hospitality venues as a whole.

Given the controversial nature of vaccine certification, the Scottish Government will put the introduction of such a scheme to a parliamentary vote next week.

In a statement to Holyrood, Sturgeon said: “Vaccine certification could, in some settings, help protect public health, reduce the necessity for any further restrictions and also boost vaccine take-up.

“The Scottish Government has made it clear that we do not believe that vaccine certification should ever be a requirement for any key services or in settings where people have no choice over attendance, for example public transport, education, access to health services or shops, and we continue to hold very firmly to that position.

“But we do consider that a limited use of vaccine certification could help to control the spread of the virus as we head into autumn and winter.”

The programme will be introduced only after all adults have received the opportunity to receive both doses of the vaccine, she added.

It will not apply to those unable to receive the vaccine, for example under 18s or those with medical conditions.

According to the most recent data, 83 per cent of over 18s have received both doses of the vaccine and 91 per cent have received one dose.

However, only just over half of 18 to 29 year olds have had both doses.

From Friday, people will be able to download a QR code to show their vaccination status. This is in addition to the current paper system in place, which has been subject to some criticism due to it taking two weeks to arrive.