Scottish courts will have the power to prosecute domestic abusers even if the crime happened abroad, the justice secretary has said.

Michael Matheson described the move as an "important" part of new domestic abuse legislation he is proposing.

The proposal was examined by Holyrood's justice committee on Tuesday.

It is part of the Domestic Abuse Bill making its way through the Scottish Parliament with cross-party support.

Matheson told MSPs the ability to prosecute for crimes committed abroad were "particularly important given that the offence is constituted by a course of behaviour that can occur over time in various places".

SNP MSP Linda Fabiani proposed an amendment to the bill for restraining orders being placed on those convicted becoming mandatory but withdrew it after concerns were raised.

Matheson said the change would "go too far" in removing the ability of judges to make decisions on the orders.

He said the orders are not always appropriate.