SNP MPs are defying calls from the UK Government for members to return to the Commons.

As part of a new programme to ease lockdown restrictions, the Westminster government is encouraging MPs to attend Parliament in person to “set a national example”.

The devolved administrations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have rejected England’s new “stay alert” strategy and will continue with stricter “stay home” measures.

The SNP cohort of MPs say that virtual sessions are sufficient and that they will follow Scottish Government instructions to stay at home.

Updated UK Government advice to MPs reads: “Parliament must set a national example of how business can continue in this new normal; and it must move, in step with public health guidance ... including a move towards further physical proceedings in the House of Commons.”

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However, SNP deputy Westminster leader Kirsty Blackman says her party will take its guidance from Holyrood.

“SNP MPs will continue to follow the clear guidance in Scotland to stay at home and save lives,” she commented.

"It has been shown that Westminster can operate with virtual settings and that is how we will continue to hold the UK Government to account.

“There is no need to increase the rate of infections and put lives at risk by encouraging MPs and staff to travel hundreds of miles back and forth to London, from constituencies across the UK, in the middle of a public health emergency.”