Moray MP Douglas Ross has welcomed news that the UK has become the first country in the world to approve the Pfizer/BioNTech Coronavirus vaccine for widespread use.
British regulator the MHRA has authorised the vaccine for use by the NHS from next week.
The UK Government secured 40million doses of this particular vaccine - enough to inoculate 20million people. Tens of millions of doses of other vaccines have also been obtained.
Reports today said that the UK Army would be drafted in to help with the logistics of a mass roll-out in Scotland.
Scottish Conservative MP for Moray Douglas Ross said:
“This is fantastic news that I am sure will be welcomed by all.
“The UK is the first country in the world to get regulatory approval for a Coronavirus vaccine - and thanks to the effort of the British government, we will have access to 40million doses.
“The NHS can start the huge task of mass vaccinations next week, with people in high priority groups at the front of the queue.
“The UK Army has been brought in to help with the roll-out, which will be a massive logistical operation.
“Of course; the availability of the vaccine, while very welcome, does not mean that we can let up our guard. It will take time to roll this out, and we must all remain vigilant in the weeks and months ahead.
“But this is the light at the end of the tunnel that we have all been waiting for and the news that will allow us to return to a form of normality here in Moray and across the country.”