A Scottish Government minister has resigned saying some of his previous actions may "have been considered to be inappropriate".

MSP for Aberdeen Donside Mark McDonald released a statement saying his behaviour may have made others "feel uncomfortable" when he believed he was merely being "humorous or attempting to be friendly".

The 37-year-old SNP member has stepped down from his role as children's minister but says he will remain MSP for the constituency he has represented since 2011.

In a statement he said: "It has been brought to my attention that some of my previous actions have been considered to be inappropriate.

"Where I have believed myself to have been merely humorous or attempting to be friendly, my behaviour might have made others uncomfortable or led them to question my intentions.

"My behaviour is entirely my responsibility and I apologise unreservedly to anyone I have upset or who might have found my behaviour inappropriate.

"In light of my position in government, I believe it would not be appropriate for me to continue to serve in my role in the Scottish Government at this time and I have tendered my resignation as a minister.

"I hope that in taking this step neither any particular woman or my family will be the focus of undue and unwarranted scrutiny."

The MSP is believed to be one of two people being investigated by the SNP over possible misconduct.