MP apologises for travelling across UK by train with coronavirus

An MP has apologised for travelling from Scotland to London and back by train, despite having coronavirus symptoms which resulted in a positive test.

The SNP's Margaret Ferrier acknowledged that "there is no excuse for her actions" after revealing details of her journey, she has since been suspended by the party.

She said she took a test on Saturday afternoon after experiencing "mild symptoms", meaning she should have self-isolated, before travelling by train to London on Monday.

The MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West said: "This was wrong, and I am very sorry for my mistake."

Ms Ferrier spoke in the coronavirus debate in the House of Commons on Monday and, by her account, tested positive for coronavirus that evening.

She said: "I travelled home by train on Tuesday morning without seeking advice. This was also wrong and I am sorry.

"I have been self-isolating at home ever since."

The MP said she has "notified the police of my actions" and has informed the test and trace system and the Commons authorities.

She said: "Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions.

"I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have, and do all they can to help limit the spread of Covid-19. "

Shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray called on SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon to condemn the MP's actions and pursue disciplinary measures against her for having acted with "astonishing recklessness".

Keep up to date with coronavirus cases in your area by adding your postcode below

The Labour MP said: "She has put passengers, rail staff, fellow MPs, Commons staff and many others at unacceptable risk.

"To breach the rules twice is simply unforgivable, and has undermined all the sacrifices made by her constituents.

"Nicola Sturgeon must come out and condemn her MP's actions and tell the Scottish people what disciplinary action she will be taking. There cannot be one rule for Margaret Ferrier, another for everybody else."

Scottish First Minister and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has said Margaret Ferrier's actions are "utterly indefensible".

She tweeted: "It's hard to express just how angry I feel on behalf of people across the country making hard sacrifices every day to help beat COVID.

"The rules apply to everyone and they're in place to keep people safe. (Ian Blackford) is right to suspend the whip."

Ms Ferrier previously called on the Government to investigate Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's chief adviser, for potential breaches of the rules over his trip to Durham.

She criticised the Prime Minister for standing by his aid, and accused Mr Cummings of "undermining public trust in lockdown rules".