Police Scotland granted powers to break up large house parties

New restrictions on social gatherings have come into force today making it an offence to have large house parties indoors.

The Scottish Government say the restrictions, which will be reviewed every three weeks, are necessary to ensure socialising can continue safely.

The legislation was brought in ahead of an expected rise in the number of indoor gathering in the autumn and winter months

The Scottish Government added local incident management teams are reporting an increasing number of house parties taking place against government guidance and could pose a major risk of Covid-19 transmission.

It is now an offence to have more than 15 people from more than one household at an indoor gathering, with limited exceptions.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Seeing friends is particularly important during what is a really difficult period. But it needs to be done safely and responsibly. That is how we avoid the return of some of the stricter lockdown measures and continue to contain this virus."

“We know from our test and protect teams – and also from evidence around the world – that large, indoor gatherings pose a major transmission risk".

“The majority of people, young and old, will be sticking with limits under current guidance – and I am very grateful for that – however, there are a minority who don’t.

“I want to make it very clear – particularly to young people – that this is not about stopping you having fun, but enabling you to have fun safely.”

“Ensuring police have the powers to enter and disperse large house parties is another tool in suppressing the virus. While we expect these powers to be used as a last resort, it will help to reduce the potential for future clusters and outbreaks.”