MORE THAN 140 fines have been handed out to people breaking coronavirus lockdown rules in Scotland in the first week since the powers came into force.

Police Scotland said today that the "overwhelming majority" of people in Scotland have been doing the right thing and following orders, but some have continued to flout restrictions. 

Most of the fixed penalties have reportedly been issued to people in groups such as house-party gatherings.

It is now a criminal offence not to follow public-health guidance on social distancing to prevent Covid-19. 

Regulation of the powers will be reviewed at least every 21 days to determine if they are still necessary.

Chief Constable Iain Livingstone warned that officers will not hesitate to take action against those who refuse to comply, adding that the powers would only be used as a “last resort.” 

And Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said the rules were in place to slow the spread of Covid-19, which would protect the NHS and save lives.