THE First Minister is set to confirm whether Scotland will move “beyond Level 0”.

Nicole Sturgeon, in a statement to Parliament, will give an update on plans to remove most remaining coronavirus restrictions on August 9.

This is everything you need to know.

What do we know already?

The Scottish Government earmarked August 9 in June, even before the move to Level 0 on July 19 – which increased the numbers of people who could gather and extended the opening hours of hospitality.

Other businesses such as soft play were finally allowed to reopen – however nightclubs are among those still closed.

Sports stadia and concert venues may go back to being able to welcome full capacity crowds again for the first time in nearly 18 months if changes are approved.

It was previously suggested all the major Covid-19 restrictions would be relaxed on Monday as long as the over-40 age group is fully vaccinated, which the Scottish Government described as a "gateway condition".

While lifting the restrictions could also bring an end to social distancing, Sturgeon has already confirmed face coverings in shops and public transport will remain mandatory for "some time to come".

What have the opposition said?

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross has said social distancing guidance should change as planned but called for amendments to the self-isolation rules of those who are double vaccinated.

He commented: "The success of Scotland and the UK's vaccine scheme overall means we can now look to move forward, cautiously but confidently, and remove almost all Covid restrictions.

"The blanket requirement to self-isolate for 10 days should be amended for those who are double vaccinated, since the virus now poses far less risk to people with that level of protection.

"We should move to a test-first system that lets people get on with their lives safely.

"Scotland's economic recovery hinges on the SNP Government moving beyond Covid restrictions - we must seize this opportunity to start rebuilding from the damage of Covid now and not delay any longer."

Anas Sarwar, Scottish Labour leader, added: "We are at a crucial moment in our exit from restrictions and while there is light at the end of the tunnel, we must make sure we take all the action necessary to jump start Scotland's recovery.

The National: Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar at the count in the Scottish Parliamentary Elections at the Emirates Arena, Glasgow. Picture date: Saturday May 8, 2021. PA Photo. See PA story POLITICS Elections. Photo credit should read: Jane Barlow/PA Wire.

"We need to ensure that people are kept safe and that businesses are helped to restart the economy.

"Perhaps most importantly, we urgently need a plan for our NHS and care systems to ensure that workers feel supported, services are invested in and the backlog of appointments is cleared.

"We have to learn to live with the virus, but to do so in such a way that the people of Scotland, our NHS and our economy are supported and protected."

The Scottish Greens have called for clarity on university rules ahead of students returning to campuses across the country within the next few weeks.

Gillian Mackay, the party's health spokeswoman, said: "The Scottish Government must ensure that there is no repeat of last year's shambolic return to campus, when thousands of students were forced to self-isolate in student halls as the virus ran riot.

"With just a few weeks to go until the new term begins, international students deserve clarity about the process of entering the country and settling in on campus. Yet ministers are unable to tell them how and where they'll be required to isolate.

"Students must also have easy access to testing and vaccination on campus, and while many younger students won't be fully vaccinated, it's essential that guidance around mask wearing and distancing is clear. Support must also be made available for anyone who tests positive.

"It's vital that the First Minister addresses these issues when she makes her statement to parliament on Tuesday, ensuring that students can be as prepared as possible for their arrival on campus."

What time is the statement?

Sturgeon will address the Scottish Parliament at 2pm.

Where can I watch it?

The announcement will be broadcast on Scottish Parliament TV and BBC Scotland.

You can keep up to date with the latest updates with The National.