An MP is facing calls for her resignation after taking a train from London to Scotland knowing she had tested positive for Covid-19.

Margaret Ferrier, the Scottish National party MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, apologised unreservedly for two major breaches of Covid regulations since she began suffering symptoms of the virus on Saturday.

Despite feeling ill enough to take a test, she then travelled to London by train on Monday to attend parliament, where she made a brief speech in the evening during a debate on coronavirus.

That evening she was also told she had tested positive for the virus. It is unclear whether she had was told before or after she spoke in parliament about the replacement of the furlough scheme.

The following morning, Tuesday, she travelled by train to Scotland without seeking advice but knowing she had the virus. She has been self-isolating at home since.

In a statement, she said speaking in parliament after suffering the symptoms of the virus “was wrong, and I am very sorry for my mistake”. And on travelling by train after testing positive she said: “This was also wrong and I am sorry.”

She added: “I have used Test and Protect and I have notified the House of Commons authorities who have spoken with Public Health England. I have also notified the police of my actions.

“Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions. I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have, and do all they can to help limit the spread of Covid-19.”

Ferrier is facing widespread criticism and multiple calls for her resignation.