Coronavirus update: First Minister will set out further restrictions on Wednesday
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There were a total of 800 new cases of coronavirus in Scotland in the last 24 hours equating to 13.2 per cent of those tested.
Some 303 cases were in NHS Greater Glasgow, 167 in NHS Lanarkshire and 164 in NHS Lothian with the rest spread across nine other areas.
The Cabinet met this morning and are meeting again tomorrow before the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon makes comment to parliament on new restrictions.
She said today: "I want to let you know what we are not proposing to do as frankly as I can.
"After seven months of decision that have been difficult to take and even more for you to deal with, this is the most difficult decision point we have faced.
"We face a sharply rising rate of infection again, the situation is pronounced in the Central belt.
"Not withstanding, cases are rising across the country to levels we cannot be comfortable with.
"We are also seeing spread from younger into older age groups and the numbers being admitted to hospital are increasing again.
"The situation is not out of control but is a cause for increasing concern.
"Action over an above the existing restrictions in necessary.
"If this was a one dimensional decision, it is possible we would be moving to the lockdown we had in march, but it is a multi-dimensional situation.
"We must consider the harm being done to jobs, health and wellbeing.
"Striking a balance is not easy.
"We know that ongoing restrictions have an impact on peoples ability to cope.
She continued: "Unlike in March we now have test and protect and is as intended taking a lot of the strain of controling the virus.
"I hope it is helpful for me to be clear on what we are not proposing to do -
"We are not proposing another lockdown even on a temporary basis.
"We are not asking you to stay in homes like we did in March.
"While restrictions on travel may be necessary for local areas, we are not shutting down the country.
"Nor are we closing down parts of the NHS.
"Apart from October holidays we are not proposing to close schools.
"However we are considering what additional targeted steps we can take to stem the spread of the virus.
