Evidence behind NI business closure decisions defended by chief scientist

Professor Ian Young small reductions to the R number combined can have a major impact (Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye/PA)

Stormont’s chief scientist has defended the evidence base that guided ministerial decisions to close down sections of Northern Ireland’s economy.

The closure of a range of businesses has been questioned after it emerged ministers were advised the move would have a low to moderate impact on infection rates but a high economic impact on workers.