Shadow Health Secretary Donald Cameron has sought reassurances from the Scottish Government that the Covid vaccine will be made equally available across Scotland, including the Highlands and Islands.

Questioning Health Secretary Jeane Freeman yesterday in the Scottish Parliament, the Highlands and Islands MSP referred to ongoing problems with the roll-out of the winter flu immunisation programme and the challenge of delivering the Covid vaccine to dispersed populations in rural and island communities.

Speaking later Mr Cameron said: “Given the issues that arose with the roll-out of the winter flu immunisation programme, with widespread confusion over appointments in some areas, people will be worried that similar problems may arise with the Covid vaccine.

“Delivering the vaccine to my region, with its unique geography, will be a challenge and it’s critically important that the Scottish Government has plans in place to ensure we don’t get left behind.

“The UK Government has done its bit by securing hundreds of millions of vaccine doses. It’s now the job of SNP ministers to ensure we can all take advantage of the vaccine, and that special consideration is given to staff and  residents in care homes.

“I am glad discussions are already underway with local health boards but this must be followed up with a practical plan that delivers the vaccine to the people who need it.”