Families of the Glasgow bin lorry crash victims have walked out of the inquiry after the driver refused to answer questions.
Some relatives left before Harry Clarke started his evidence at Glasgow Sheriff Court and more walked out soon afterwards.
Taking the oath, Mr Clarke was told by Sheriff John Beckett QC he did not have to answer any questions which might incriminate him.
The council worker, who was appearing during the fifth week of the fatal accident inquiry, could face a future private prosecution over the tragedy in which six people died.
According to sources, the family of one of the victims has asked the Scottish government to fund such a legal move.
The situation entitles him not to answer certain questions if he chooses not to.
Mr Clarke gave evidence after a motion by his lawyer to have the inquiry halted was refused by the sheriff.
When asked by Solicitor General Lesley Thomson QC about his early employment history, there were sighs from the families as the 58-year-old repeatedly responded: "I don't want to answer that question".
Questioned about the crash, Ms Thomson said: "Do you know that six people died on 22 December?".
Mr Clarke said: "I don't want to answer that question".
Ms Thomson said: "The families have been in court every day to hear answers, do you know that?",
Mr Clarke's lawyer made repeated objections to the sheriff during questioning.
Giving his evidence seated, Mr Clarke was asked by the asked by Ms Thompson: "Do you understand that by choosing not to answer you are putting yourself first?".
He said: "I wouldn't agree with that".
He was then questioned over his medical records dating back to June, 1976, which listed periods of dizziness and ill-health.
Following an intervention by his lawyer, Mr Clarke was again reminded by the sheriff he did not have to give any answers that could incriminate him.
Mr Clarke said: "I don't wish to answer any more questions". He repeated the statement when asked about other ailments.
Questioned over his sickness record and if he could remember as far back as 2010, he said: "No".
He also declined to say if it was his signature on a sick pay form, but added: "It looks like it".
