The Scottish prosecution authorities have announced that no action is to be taken against former first minister Henry McLeish.

McLeish resigned from the post as Scotland's political leader after it emerged that he had claimed over £30,000 in allowances in the so-called "Officegate" affair.

Scotland's Crown Office said no action would be taken after determining that there was no evidence to suggest "criminal intent".

McLeish, who is also set to stand down from the Scottish parliament over the affair, expressed his relief at the outcome.

"This has been a difficult time but I never had any doubts about the outcome," he said.

"After nearly 30 years in public office, serving my constituency and my country, I am now looking forward to the future."