UK minister Esther McVey defended the UK Government's 'rape clause' legislation as offering "double support" to women, saying it could provide an "outlet" for them.

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions was being questioned by the Scottish Parliament's Social Security Committee over universal credit and the transfer of welfare powers.

READ MORE: Tory minister says rape clause offers women 'double support'

Green MSP Alison Johnstone pressed McVey on the two-child limit on tax credits, and asked her to explain her stance on the controversial 'rape clause'.

McVey's comments were met with anger on social media, and the session was suspended after a member of the public gallery called out in response to her comments.