The Chancellor has given millions of workers across Scotland economic security right through until October with the extension of the furlough scheme by four months.

Shadow Finance Secretary Donald Cameron has given a very warm welcome to the announcement.

Mr Cameron, a Highlands and Islands MSP, said:

“The confirmation by Rishi Sunak that the furlough is being extended is very good news for employers and their employees here in the Highlands and Islands and right across Scotland.

“This decisive action by  the Chancellor will help local businesses get through this crisis, save jobs, and be in a position to trade again when it is safe to do so.

“The United Kingdom is the sixth-largest economy in the world. We have never needed that strength more than we need it now.”