Police Scotland are warning the public not to attend an anti-lockdown march through Edinburgh.

Anyone planning on attending Monday's demonstration have been urged to stay away.

Published 9th Jan 2021
Last updated 9th Jan 2021

Police Scotland have urged members of the public to stay at home and not attend an anti-lockdown march through Edinburgh.

The Scotland Against Lockdown group, which organises through social media, announced last week plans to "march for freedom'' through the capital on Monday, from Holyrood to the First Minister's residence at Bute House.

The group held a similar demonstration last month.

Under current Scottish Government regulations, marches and protests are not allowed.

Superintendent David Robertson, from Edinburgh Division, said: "Under the current Level 4 restrictions, such gatherings are not permitted and anyone wishing to demonstrate is urged to find alternative ways to protest, such as online, to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

“The Scottish Government regulations are clear that public processions and static protests are prohibited under the current Level 4 restrictions.

"Our approach throughout this pandemic has been to use the 4Es approach, which is to engage with the public, explain the restrictions in place, encourage compliance and, as a last resort we will use enforcement, where required.

“The Chief Constable has been clear, where officers encounter wilful breaches, we will act decisively to enforce the law.

Scotland Against Lockdown has also said it plans to hold another demonstration in Glasgow's George Square today.