Scottish island of 'two halves' linked for first time | Hospitality fears amid new lockdown warning

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Welcome to your Tuesday newsletter from The Scotsman.

Are we heading towards another lockdown?

There is certainly a growing sense of dread from business leaders after Scotland's national clinical director Jason Leitch warned rising cases may mean a “reverse gear” on restrictions was required and the Scottish Government may be forced to "switch off" sections of society.

Professor Leitch did not specify which sectors of the economy could see restrictions again but his words have already sparked concern amid hospitality leaders who feel their beleaguered industry, one of the last to see Covid rules lifted, cannot endure any further lockdowns.

In other news, Scotland has attracted scorn from the world's most famous climate activist Greta Thunberg.

The 18-year-old Swede said has said she does not consider Scotland as a world leader when it comes to climate change ahead of COP26. The remarks come after the Scottish government previously described its climate change legislation as "world-leading”.

During her interview with the BBC, the activist also said she was aware of the controversy about the Cambo oil field west of Shetland. Asked whether a quicker energy transition can be achieved without costing tens of thousands of jobs in a place such as Aberdeen, Thunberg said: "I sure hope so

Today's top stories at a glance

Coming up today...

Nicola Sturgeon will set out details of her Government’s deal with the Greens as Holyrood returns after the summer recess at around 2pm. Make sure to visit our homepage for the latest news and analysis.

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