VIDEO: Empty streets across the country as Scots heed advice to stay at home during coronavirus outbreak

Streets across Scotland have become eerily quiet as people across the country stick to government advice to stay at home.

A period of lockdown across the UK was brought in by Boris Johnson on Monday, lasting for at least three weeks.

With pubs, restaurants, gyms and theatres all instructed to close last Friday, more businesses and establishments have followed this week.

Most people are now working from home where possible, with forays outside only to pick up essential supplies from local shops or for a daily portion of exercise.

Busy motorways have seen a dramatic fall in traffic, and footfall has plummeted on normally bustling thoroughfares like Glasgow’s Buchanan Street.

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, normally packed with tourists, has also become almost deserted.

Yesterday, Scotland’s Justice Secretary said police would have the power to arrest people flouting the coronavirus guidance.

Defying the measures introduced in response to the Covid-19 outbreak will be a criminal offence, with officers able to detain culprits to protect public health.

Humza Yousaf told MSPs the “unprecedented” arrest powers can be invoked against individuals, events and public gatherings when there is a “serious and imminent threat to public health”.

Those found breaching public health regulations will face a fine or “other enforcement action”, Mr Yousaf said.

When you can leave your home

To get essential shopping
For any medical need
To provide care or help a vulnerable person
For one walk, jog or cycle
Travelling to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot be done from home

Explaining the new powers set out in the UK Government’s emergency Coronavirus Bill, expected to come into force by the end of the month, Mr Yousaf said: “This includes powers allowing the police in Scotland to support and enforce public health measures, including powers to detain people and put them in appropriate isolation facilities if necessary to protect public health.

“The Bill also gives Scottish ministers the power to restrict or prohibit events or gatherings where incidence or transmission of coronavirus constitutes a serious and imminent threat to public health.

“These measures are unprecedented but we must take this action now to save lives.

“We are not doing so lightly and have taken this decision based on medical and scientific advice.”