Visiting other people’s homes will be banned throughout Scotland from tomorrow, as part of a package of measures designed to keep schools open.

First minister Nicola Sturgeon also said that a “circuit breaker” - a short period of nationwide lockdown - was a possibility during the October schools holidays.

Meanwhile, other measures designed to combat the resurgence of Covid-19 include all bars and restaurants having to close at 10pm each night from Friday, in line with changes announced for England earlier today.

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Ms Sturgeon told the Scottish Parliament: “Of course, the most important priority for all of us is saving lives and protecting health.

Coronavirus: Keeping schools open

“But there are other priorities, too. Firstly, we are determined to keep schools open and young people in education. That is vital to the health, wellbeing and future prospects of every young person across our country.”

She described the new measures as “not a lockdown” but “tough” and “carefully targeted at key sources of transmission”. She added that “we believe they can make a significant difference, while keeping our schools, public services and as many businesses as possible open”.

Ms Sturgeon also addressed recent media speculation over “a so-called circuit breaker, timed to coincide with the October school break, and during which people would be given much more comprehensive advice to stay at home”.

She said: “The Scottish government has not made any decision at this stage to implement such a policy. However, we are actively keeping it under review.

“What I would say to people now is this. Please think of the October break as an opportunity to further limit social interaction, particularly indoors. And, given that this is a global pandemic, please do not book travel overseas for the October break if it is not essential.”

Regulations banning visits to other households will come into effect on Friday but Ms Sturgeon urged people to comply from tomorrow. It will remain possible to meet with one other household in groups of up to six people outdoors, including in private gardens, but children under 12 will be exempt.

“There will be no limits on the ability of children under 12 to play together outdoors,” said Ms Sturgeon.

The first minister revealed that exemptions for older school-aged people had been considered but ultimately rejected, and she had a message for teenagers: “I know how miserable this is for you and I am so grateful for your patience. We are trying to give you as much flexibility as we can at this vitally important time of your lives. In return, please work with us and do your best to stick to the rules, for everyone’s sake.”