A private prison in West Lothian is to face prosecution over the death of a prisoner, 12 days after he contracted Covid.

Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC launched the move against Sodexo Ltd and NHS Lothian for their alleged failures to properly manage the medical care of Calum Inglis.

The 34-year-old, who had asthma, was found dead in his cell at HMP Addiewell on 24 October 2021.

It is the first time a private prison has been prosecuted in Scotland.

Lawyer Aamer Anwar welcomed the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) decision, which follows a campaign by Inglis’ family.

Mr Anwar noted it will also be one of the first prosecutions relating to 6,000 Covid deaths reported to Crown Office, including 15 prison deaths.

Inglis, who was serving a sentence for serious assault, contracted Covid-19 while a prisoner on 12 October 2021.

But on 24 October he was found dead after what Mr Anwar said was a “slow and agonising death”

He added Inglis was a “much-loved son and brother”.

Mr Anwar said: “His family hope that their love for him, the relentless campaign they have fought for him will leave a lasting legacy.”

The lord advocate said she understood the “tragic loss” felt by the family.

She added: “I am committed to ensuring that the facts and circumstances surrounding Calum’s death are thoroughly investigated by the relevant agencies, fully considered by COPFS and aired in the appropriate legal forum.

“The family and their legal representative will continue to be kept updated in accordance with their wishes.”

A spokesperson for HMP Addiewell, said: “We understand that this continues to be a very difficult time for Mr Inglis’s family and our thoughts and condolences remain with them.

“It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage, but I can confirm that we are continuing to work with all relevant authorities in advance of any future fatal accident inquiry.”

A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: “Our thoughts continue to be with the family and loved ones of Mr Inglis.”