Pictures published by The Scottish Sun show the nationalist politician speaking to several elderly people in a pub without wearing a face mask.
Confronted about the incident Ms Sturgeon admitted she was “in the wrong” and claimed to be “kicking herself” over the lapse in rules.
She added: “This was a stupid mistake and I’m really sorry.”
Under laws passed by the SNP it is illegal in Scotland to go maskless in a pub or bar unless you are sitting at a table.
The incident took place last week at the Stable Bar and Restaurant in Mortonhall, Edinburgh.
Speaking to the Sun one of the pub’s patrons said they were shocked to see the SNP leader breaking Scottish government law.
Ms Sturgeon had been attending the funeral of a Scottish civil servant at Mortonhall Crematorium.
According to Schedule 7 of Scotland’s Health Protection (coronavirus) regulations it is a “requirement to wear face coverings in certain indoor places” such as pubs and restaurants.
The only exception is if you are “seated at a table” which the first minister was not.
Breaches of these rules can result in a fine of £60, though this is lowered to £30 if paid within 28 days.
It is unclear whether Ms Sturgeon will be required to pay this penalty.
The law explains: “A person commits an offence under this regulation is liable, on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum.”
More to follow…
