OPPOSITION MSPs in Holyrood quizzed the government over the support offered to workers as new Covid-19 restrictions come into force across Scotland on Friday.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon defended tougher rules across central Scotland, which will close pubs and licensed restaurants for 16 days from 6pm tonight in five health-board areas.

Venues in Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Arran, Lothian, and Forth Valley can provide takeaways only throughout the period.

In all other areas, pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes will only be able to operate indoors between 6am and 6pm and will not be allowed to serve alcohol – although they can still sell drinks until 10pm in outside areas.

But concerns were raised about the implications of the rules, particularly for low-paid workers whose industries would be affected. 

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard accused Ms Sturgeon of failing to consult with hospitality businesses and trade unions before imposing major new restrictions, saying that employers and workers were “left in the dark.”

He said: “It is clear this is not just about the decision you’ve taken, it’s about how you have taken it. All week, there were hints that tighter restrictions were coming.

“All the while, those set to be most affected by the restrictions were kept in the dark.  

“Workers who have followed the guidance to the letter to keep their customers safe and keep their jobs safe now see their jobs on the line. 

“So, First Minister, why did you take this decision without consulting with, sharing the evidence with, and preparing adequate support for those most affected?” 

The SNP leader said groups such as trade unions were consulted “on an ongoing basis,” but that advice changed daily. 

Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie said the government needed to “up its game on testing” as concerns grew over the numbers failing to self isolate. 

He queried the support people would get to enable them to stay at home when needed and whether grants would be available to all. 

Ms Sturgeon told MSPs the government did not have the finances to offer this universally, but those on low incomes and those likely to lose income if they have to self isolate would be targeted. 

She added that details of how cash would be split will be announced Friday.