NICOLA Sturgeon has responded to Boris Johnson's announcement that England will go into a four-week lockdown, saying she will "continue to take decisions that reflect circumstances in Scotland".

Non-essential shops and hospitality businesses in England will have to close but, unlike the first lockdown in March, schools and universities will remain open.

On Monday Boris Johnson will update Parliament on the new measures and MPs will vote on the plans on Thursday. 

READ MORE: Covid: Boris Johnson announces England will go into lockdown from Thursday

Sturgeon tweeted a statement in response to Johnson's Downing Street press conference.

She said Holyrood will "take considered decisions based on what is right for Scotland".

She added: "A key point for us - which we hope to clarify ASAP - is whether extended furlough support is available only in November or flexibly for devolved admins. That could have an impact on our decisions."

2. @scotgov will take considered decisions based on what is right for Scotland. A key point for us - which we hope to clarify ASAP - is whether extended furlough support is available only in November or flexibly for devolved admins. That could have an impact on our decisions.

The FM's statement read: "We will carefully consider the impact of today's announcement in England - however, we will continue to take decisions that reflect circumstances in Scotland.

"We expect to have further discussion in the coming days about the scope of additional financial support being made available. A crucial point for us is whether support on the scale announced for English businesses is available for Scottish businesses now or if we needed to impose further restrictions later - or if it is only available if Scotland has a full lock down at the same time as a lockdown in England.

"However, notwithstanding the above, today's developments should be a reminder to people across Scotland of the need to follow the rules and not to put their own twist on them. It is important we all comply with the rules in our area if we are to successfully suppress the virus, protect the NHS and keep as many businesses and services open.

Sturgeon went on: "People across Scotland have faced significant restrictions since late September as we work to stop the increase in Covid cases across the country. Prevalence of the virus is currently lower in Scotland than in other parts of the UK and there are some signs that those earlier restrictions may be starting to slow the rate of increase.

"However, we are monitoring the spread of the virus in all parts of Scotland on a daily basis to assess if, to what extent and at what speed the slowdown is continuing. We will not hesitate to increase the level of protection either locally or nationally if required. Our new levels approach -including a potential level 4 - enables us to respond quickly and flexibly as required."

The FM stressed that Scotland's new five-tier system comes into force on Monday morning at 6am.

She added: "I encourage everyone to find out what level their local authority is in and to stick to the rules in their area.

"I also urge everyone to follow two key national restrictions by not mixing with other households inside our homes, and not travelling to or from any part of the country in level 3 unless it is absolutely essential.

Sturgeon also advised people not to travel to or from England "unless absolutely essential".