Police have issued a warning to Scotland’s chief medical officer after she was caught ignoring her own coronavirus guidance by visiting her Fife holiday home.
Dr Catherine Calderwood was photographed outside her second property in Earlsferry near Fife on Saturday, and later admitted she did not have a “legitimate reason” for leaving her home.
She issued an “unreserved” apology but vowed to continue in her role, despite calls from parliamentarians for her to resign.
Scotland’s chief medical officer ‘truly sorry’ for Fife visit amid calls for her to resign
This afternoon police said the “overwhelming majority” of people are adhering to the guidance that they should remain in their homes to help limit the spread of coronavirus.
Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said: “Earlier today, local officers visited Dr Catherine Calderwood and spoke to her about her actions, reiterated crucial advice and issued a warning about her future conduct, all of which she accepted.
“The legal instructions on not leaving your home without a reasonable excuse apply to everyone.
“Social distancing is the key intervention to curtail the spread of coronavirus and it is essential the instructions are followed to protect each other, support key workers, take strain from the NHS and save lives.
“Individuals must not make personal exemptions bespoke to their own circumstances.”
He added: “Police officers and staff are putting themselves in harm’s way day and night to explain these instructions to our communities, encourage co-operation and, where necessary, enforce them.”
Chief Constable @CC_Livingstone statement on the conduct of the Chief Medical Officer. pic.twitter.com/oTkCyk6xzd
— Police Scotland (@policescotland) April 5, 2020
