First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has "emphatically" denied claims she has concealed allegations about Alex Salmond's behaviour at Edinburgh Airport.

Police have interviewed the employees over an accusation relating to the former First Minister, which is said to have happened in 2008.

Claims have been made that both Sturgeon and her party covered up the accusation.

But when questioned on the issue, the First Minister said: "That is absolutely not the case - emphatically not the case.

"I think people will understand serious concerns and complaints have been raised.

"The people raising these complaints now deserve to have the benefit of due process, that's what i'm determined will happen.

"I will answer all and any questions when legal processes have concluded but I think as most people will understand, it's neither possible nor appropriate to do at this time."

Two other complaints, fiercely denied by Mr Salmond, were raised in January against him and he was informed of an investigation in March.

The allegations about his conduct towards two staff members in 2013, while he was first minister, emerged before Police Scotland confirmed the complaints have was passed to the force.

Mr Salmond later resigned from the SNP and launched legal action against the Scottish government in the Court of Session over its handling of the misconduct allegations.

A spokesman said: "Mr Salmond denies all suggestions of misconduct at any time and suggests that everyone should allow police inquires to take their proper course without briefing or breaching their confidentiality.

"Alex has not been interviewed by the police about any matter. He is content to have his case against the Scottish Government stated in the Court of Session in January."