First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has asked all restaurants, cafes, pubs and cinemas in Scotland to close.

Speaking in a televised address from Bute House in Edinburgh, she said the number of cases of Covid-19 are set to rise sharply.

She said everyone must act now to slow the spread of the virus, adding that we must also reduce the number of people we meet and come into contact with.

It comes just an hour after Prime Minister Boris Johnson issued the same demands from a press conference in London. 

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Ms Sturgeon said: "We have asked to make changes to our lives that would have been unimaginable just weeks ago.

"Covid-19 is the biggest challenge of our lifetimes. The number of cases is due to rise sharply. We must do all we can to slow it down and save lives.

"All of us must act now to slow the spread of the virus. Washing our hands regularly is important but we must also reduce the number of people we meet and come into contact with.

"That means staying at home if you or anyone in your house has a high temperature or new and persistent cough.

"For all of us it means working from home, if possible, avoiding public transport and not socialising in groups.

"We've also asked people to stay away from crowded places, like pubs, restaurants and places. 

"I can confirm, in light of advice from our scientists and chief medical officer that there there must be strict compliance for that to be effective, I am now asking restaurants, cafes, pubs, gyms, and cinemas to close. 

"I know how difficult this is. But it is vital to reduce the risk of getting the virus and the risk of infecting those who are most at risk.

"In short, it will save lives." 

Ms Sturgeon's announcement followed Mr Johnson's own demands while Chancellor Rishi Sunak revealed a series of pledges to help workers during the pandemic. 

Chancellor Sunak said Government grants would cover 80 per cent of the salary of retained workers of up to a total of £2,500. 

Ms Sturgeon continued: "We've put the NHS on an emergency footing and are taking steps to increase the capacity of our hospitals. 

"People who work in our hospitals will be tested like never before. Most of us have friends and family working the NHS. 

"The debt of gratitude we owe all of them is enormous. 

"Many of you are deeply worried about your jobs and your income. As Government, we are asking you to take unprecedented steps, so the level of support we give to you must be unprecedented in return.

"A crisis like this will have an impact on wellbeing and mental health. To older people, we are asking you to stay away from your grandchildren for your own protection.

"That's hard but it is so you can be around to see them grow up.

"To children, I know this is a strange time. You're away from school and won't be able to spend as much time with your friends. 

"Let's all look out for each other. At times of crisis we need each other more, but we are told to stay apart.

"Phone or Skype loved ones. Text neighbours or drop a letter through their door." 

Glasgow Times: Prime Minister Boris Johnson Prime Minister Boris Johnson

She added: "Please do not panic buy. There's plenty to go round if we all act responsibly.

"We are entering stormy waters and I cannot tell you yet when we will reach dry land. I can promise you I will do my utmost to lead us safely through. 

"Difficult days do lie ahead. 

"This crisis is reminding us just how fragile this world is but it is also reminding us what really matters. Health, love, solidarity.

"We can and we will get through this."