Scotland’s First Minister has said he “understands” the “hurt and anguish” trans people are feeling over the UK Supreme Court verdict on the definition of a woman.

John Swinney said that he fully accepted the court’s judgement but also recognised the pain it has caused.

Speaking while campaigning for the SNP’s candidate in the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, the SNP leader said the verdict must be followed.

He told the PA news agency: “Now, of course, there will be many, many people who feel very hurt by the decision that’s been taken by the Supreme Court.

“I understand that hurt and that anguish, and in my reaction to the Supreme Court judgement I’ve said two things: Firstly, that I accept the judgement of the Supreme Court because I believe in the rule of law, but secondly that I believe in the protection of the rights of everybody within our society.

“The Supreme Court made it abundantly clear that it was vital that the existing legal instruments that are in place to protect the rights of trans people continue to operate.”

Judge Lord Hodge said that the ruling should not be seen as a triumph for either side of the debate and stressed that existing law still gives trans people protection against discrimination.