'Holyrood needs to be reformed,' says Crawford

Reforms are needed to make sure the Scottish Parliament is open, responsive and in tune with the public, the parliamentary business secretary has said.

Bruce Crawford highlighted changes such as quicker responses to public concerns, greater pre- and post-legislative scrutiny and flexible rules on back-bencher contributions. He also suggested changing chamber sitting times, possibly adding to the current Wednesday afternoon and Thursday sessions.

He said: "I have already taken steps to ensure the smaller parties have committee places and that the Liberal Democrats are represented on the Parliamentary Bureau. But we need to go further."