Police arrest MP over Covid rules case

Margaret Ferrier, a British legislator, was arrested and charged by police

Scottish MP Margaret Ferrier attended the House of Commons while experiencing symptoms of coronavirus. House of Commons

Scottish police have arrested Margaret Ferrier, a member of Britain's Parliament, for allegedly breaking Covid-19 rules when she made a long train journey last year after testing positive for the virus.

"We can confirm that officers today arrested and charged a 60-year-old woman in connection with alleged culpable and reckless conduct," a Police Scotland spokeswoman said.

"This follows a thorough investigation by Police Scotland into an alleged breach of coronavirus regulations between 26 and 29 September 2020.

"A report will be sent to the procurator fiscal and we are unable to comment further."

Ms Ferrier, the MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, learnt that she tested positive in late September after she made a speech in Parliament.

She travelled more than 640 kilometres back to Scotland owing to concerns she would have to quarantine in a hotel for two weeks.

She apologised for making the trip and said she took responsibility for her actions.

Her Scottish National Party suspended her shortly afterwards.

It is mandatory in England for people to go into isolation if they test positive for the coronavirus.