University students warned to pull the plug on house parties

Students have been warned not to have house parties as the Scottish Government issued an appeal to universities.

The First Minister and national clinical director have urged students to make sacrifices during the country’s fight against coronavirus.

It comes as hundreds of students have been told to self-isolate amid suspected outbreaks at a number of universities.

Professor Jason Leitch said: “We need you not to have house parties. I could not be any clearer.

“By all means socialise in licensed hospitality venues, where a maximum of six people from two households can meet, but no meeting up in other people’s homes or in your shared student accommodation.

“The new rules coming into force today state that you must not meet people from other households in your home or in another person’s home socially, unless they are in your extended household, and a maximum of six people from two households can meet in outdoor spaces.

“This applies to you as it applies to the rest of us. Parties are not allowed, I’m sorry and I hope they come back soon.”

Nicola Sturgeon said that that “tough guidance” was in place but discussions were ongoing about what may be needed going forward.

Appealing to students, she said: “If you are asked to self-isolate, and I know many of you are already in that position, it is really important that you follow that advice.”

She added: “From me, for now, please know that we appreciate the sacrifices you’re making at this really important stage of your lives.

“It’s not yesterday that I was at university, but I still remember what an important stage of life it is and nobody wants you to be living under these restrictions, but it is important that you take care not put yourselves at risk and obviously not to inadvertently put other people at risk.

“What we’re asking you to do now is for the collective good of everyone but we do appreciate your sacrifices and thank you for it.”

Students were also reminded that if they have been asked to self-isolate, they should do so for the full 14 days.