McConnell hurt in ice slip

Mr McConnell fell on ice outside Bute House

Scotland's first minister has been treated for cuts to his face after falling on ice outside his official residence in Edinburgh.

Jack McConnell required three stitches to a gash above his left eye following the slip on an icy pavement.

Mr McConnell was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment and was released after treatment.

The first minister required stitches

His staff added that he had not been knocked unconscious and had resumed his duties.

A spokesman said the accident happened at 1030 GMT as Mr McConnell walked into Bute House in Charlotte Square in the New Town.

He stressed that Mr McConnell would fulfil all of his diary duties, including the launching of a healthy eating initiative on Tuesday.

The spokesman said: "The first minister slipped on the pavement this morning.

"He cut his head and had three stitches just above his eye.

"It was outside Bute House. He's back behind his desk and working as usual."

The late First Minister Donald Dewar died shortly after slipping on the pavement outside Bute House in the winter of 2000.