Salmond laid low by stomach bug

Mr Salmond is expected to return to work on Friday

Alex Salmond has been forced to pull out of First Minister's Questions because of illness.

A spokesman said Mr Salmond had had an "uncomfortable night" as a result of a stomach bug.

The news emerged less than an hour before Mr Salmond was due to take to the floor in the chamber.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will step in for him in parliament, while other colleagues will stand in for him at other events.

The news of his illness emerged as MSPs took part in a debate on global food shortages.

The spokesman said the first minister had cancelled his engagements for Thursday - with the exception of a meeting on the fuel situation.

Mr Salmond, 53, will chair this over the phone from his official residence, Bute House, in Edinburgh.

Other ministers will stand in for Mr Salmond at his other engagements, including planned meetings with representatives from the Scottish Football Association and the Fire Brigades Union.

A spokesman for Mr Salmond said: "The first minister developed a stomach upset overnight and he has had an uncomfortable night. He had a sore throat yesterday and was feeling off colour."

He added: "We're sure it's a 24-hour bug and that he will back on his feet and carrying out his engagements as normal tomorrow."