SCOTLAND is to receive a virus fighting fund of £780m, the UK Government has announced.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the cash is to ensure health services, businesses and the public have the resources needed to tackle Covid-19.

Wales and Northern Ireland will also receive financial support of £475m and £260m respectively, calculated via the Barnett formula - as the Herald reports. 

It is on top of the support being given through the UK Government to cover some employers' bills for statutory sick pay which will apply from the first day of absence, and the loans to businesses affected.

During last week's budget the Chancellor said that firms with fewer than 250 employees would have the first 14 days of statutory sick pay covered by Westminster.

READ MORE: Coronavirus: Greater Glasgow hits 44 cases as 171 positive for COVID-19 in Scotland

Announcing the latest funding, Sunak said: "We will do what is right to help businesses and individuals in every part of the UK. That is why we announced a special funding package at the Budget last week to support those affected by Covid-19.

“Today I am confirming this additional funding that will ensure the devolved administrations can support vulnerable people, businesses and vital public services, including the NHS, in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.”

Scottish Secretary, Alister Jack, added: "The UK and Scottish Governments are working closely together in the fight against Covid - 19 as we do all we can to delay the spread and alleviate pressure on our public services, people and businesses.

“The £780 million for the Scottish Government announced today is in addition to the £1.9 billion spending increase for 2020-21 confirmed at the Budget last week. This will help ensure the Scottish Government has the resources it needs to support those affected by Covid-19.”

In total, devolved administrations are receiving at least £1.5bn, which is factored in to the government's £12bn direct response plan announced last week.

Donald Cameron, Scottish Conservative shadow finance secretary said the Scottish Government must ringfence the funds for Covid-19 related measures only. 

He said: "We are in no doubt of the significant impact of Covid-19 on our society, economy and our public services.

“This substantial £780m funding package from the UK government will help Scotland prepare for, and mitigate, the effects of this global pandemic.

“Given the extreme and widespread impact of this health crisis, the entire £780m must be ringfenced for Covid-19 by the Scottish government.

“In addition, the Scottish government should follow the UK government’s lead and establish a Response Fund for the NHS and other public services to alleviate any funding concerns.

“We know that the tourism and retail sectors are hardest hit right now, and special support should be directed to them as an urgent priority.

“Everyone agrees this is going to be a very difficult time for our economy and our health service – we can, and must, focus financial support where it is needed most.”