7. To ask the Scottish Government, in light of the impact on rural businesses, what engagement it had with equestrian governing bodies to inform the phased return to activity. (S5O-04394)

The Scottish Government recognises the many benefits that equestrianism delivers for Scotland, including the economic benefits and the important contribution that is made by the many workers and volunteers. Horsescotland is a key member of the Covid-19 response group that has been set up by sportscotland to consider the conditions that would be required for a safe return for outdoor sport. Horse riding coaching is now permitted if it is outdoors, although some restrictions of course come along with that.

I would like to speak to the minister on behalf of Fergushill riding stables in my constituency about the one household a day rule. Obviously, coaching takes place in an outdoor setting, and the business tells me that one-to-one sessions that are staggered throughout the day, using different horses with their own tack, could go ahead with no compromise to physical distancing and with no cross-contamination from coach to pupil or from pupil to horse. I know that the minister recognises the positive mental and physical health benefits. Will the Government reconsider the one household a day rule to enable this business to continue to be viable?

I completely understand the concerns that Ms Maguire has outlined, but public health is of course one of the key concerns. As of 29 May 2020, one-to-one teaching has been permitted outdoors but there has to be physical distancing. The activity is allowed to take place with members of that household as well as members of one other. Horsescotland has recently published guidance for phase 1 of Scotland’s route map, which can be found on its website. I would be happy to send those details to Ms Maguire should she find that helpful.

That guidance includes specific advice for riding schools, livery yards, outdoor facilities, coaches and participants, and the activity has to be consistent with the current guidance on health, physical distancing and hygiene. We will continue to engage with the sector to ensure that it can operate more normally as soon as it is safe for it to do so, because we want to see that happen. However, public health is the overriding concern and we need to ensure that we get that right.