| Good afternoon, Welcome to your breaking coronavirus briefing from The Scotsman. Trusted, accurate journalism has never been more essential, and it has never been more in peril. We have been hit hard by the pandemic and need your support to keep going. If you can, please consider taking out a subscription with us from just £3 a month. Thank you. Boris Johnson arrives Despite suggestions from the First Minister that the trip would not be 'essential' – and a few complaints to police – Boris Johnson arrived in Glasgow this morning. The Prime Minister hopes to promote the union by reminding everyone how the UK Government has handled the coronavirus pandemic. Mr Johnson has pointed towards the vaccine rollout, testing regime, and financial support from Westminster as benefits for Scotland remaining in the United Kingdom. Read more about the Prime Minister's visit to Scotland here. Covid deaths rise by 82 Meanwhile, the latest coronavirus figures have been released by the Scottish Government. There have been 82 further deaths recorded in the last 24 hours and 1,200 new cases – but the R number has fallen below one, suggesting progress. For a full picture of the latest Covid figures for Scotland, see our story here. More coronavirus news today >> For the latest coronavirus news as it unfolds, see our LIVE blog here. Thank you for reading and stay safe, Ginny - ginny.sanderson@jpimedia.co.uk | 
