Scotland's finance secretary has stepped down amid claims he was messaging a 16-year-old boy on social media.
According to the Scottish Sun, Derek Mackay contacted the teenager multiple times over a six month period on Instagram and Facebook.
The newspaper also claims that the 42-year-old called him 'cute' and invited him to dinner and a rugby event.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon acknowledged Mackay's resignation in parliament on Wednesday (local time).
"Mackay has apologised unreservedly for his conduct and recognised, as I do, that it was unacceptable and falls seriously below the standard required of a minister."
Sturgeon also revealed that Mackay had been suspended from the Scottish National Party and parliament "pending further investigation".
Scottish Tory interim leader Jackson Carlaw responded to Sturgeon by reading out the definition of child grooming according to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).
The charity's website references authority figures using social media to message and give young people attention. It also mentions authority figures taking children on "trips, outings or holidays".
Carlaw later tweeted a screenshot of the NSPCC's website with the caption: "This is the definition of grooming from the NSPCC. Derek Mackay's behaviour is completely unacceptable and I believe he has no option other than to resign as an MSP. Nicola Sturgeon should show clear leadership and join those calling for him to go."
In an earlier statement, Mackay apologised for his actions.
"I take full responsibility for my actions. I have behaved foolishly and I am truly sorry.
"I apologise unreservedly to the individual involved and his family. I spoke last night to the First Minister and tendered my resignation with immediate effect.
"Serving in government has been a huge privilege and I am sorry to have let colleagues and supporters down."
NSPCC definition of grooming
The relationship a groomer builds can take different forms. This could be:
- a romantic relationship
- as a mentor
- an authority figure
- a dominant and persistent figure
A groomer can use the same sites, games and apps as young people, spending time learning about a young person's interests and use this to build a relationship with them.
Children can be groomed online through:
- social media networks
- text messages and messaging apps, like Whatsapp
- text, voice and video chats in forums, games and apps
Whether online or in person, groomers can use tactics like:
- pretending to be younger
- giving advice or showing understanding
- buying gifts
- taking them on trips, outings or holidays
- giving attention
