Scotland likely to reopen for tourism from July 15

Scotland is likely to reopen for tourism from July 15. As per the latest reports, this will, however, depend on the progress toward phase 3 of the route map of the Scottish government. Tourism Secretary Fergus Ewing hinted that the date might be changed depending on the status of COVID-19 spread.
The Tourism Secretary announced that they will appoint a new task force that will check on the recovery needs of the tourism sector. The task force will also keep a check on the actions taken by the UK Government, apart from developing a new domestic visitor marketing campaign.

Mr Wing added that in addition to the £2.3 billion package to support businesses across Scotland, which included measures specific to the hospitality and tourism sector, such as specific grant schemes among other things.
He further stated that the Coronavirus outbreak has presented challenges across the entirety of Scottish economy, and it is quite clear that the exceptional circumstances of this sector need to be recognised.
The Tourism Secretary stated that the Scottish Government was also asking the UK Government to push in more reliefs like reviewing VAT rates, and also consider extensions to certain schemes such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

Businesses need to start preparing themselves for a provisional return to trading; however, with appropriate safety measures in place on July 15, the Tourism Secretary added. Although the date is not definitive, and will depend on the progression to phase three of the route map. Therefore, businesses now need to use this time to get in place all necessary regulations and, at the same time, adapt to a new way of living.

Reportedly, the Scottish Government has confirmed that this announcement applies to hotels, pubs, and restaurants.