The shackling of a pregnant prisoner on a hospital visit was condemned yesterday by the Scottish Government.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was responding to MSP questions about the case of Donna McLeish, who spent three days attached by a three-foot chain to Reliance security officers, including a male, while she slept, showered and used the toilet. The 21-year old was jailed for two years for the violent assault of a student.

Ms Sturgeon said the government's position is clear: "We consider the handcuffing of pregnant women in hospital unacceptable."

Quizzed by Labour MSP Johann Lamont, she said the issue was to be discussed by the constituency MSP and Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill, and she hoped this would make it clear that it is an issue the government takes "very seriously indeed".

A spokesman for Mr MacAskill amplified the point, saying: "Heavily pregnant prisoners should not be handcuffed. The Scottish Prison Service and Reliance have acknowledged this was a regrettable mistake that should not have happened. They have apologised for the error."

It was reported at the weekend that Donna McLeish's lawyers are considering legal action against Reliance.