Salmond hails UN recognition

FIRST Minister Alex Salmond has welcomed new recognition of Scotland's human rights institution by the United Nations.

The Scottish Human Rights Commission has been given Grade A accreditation by the UN, which means it will be able to report directly to the international body on issues such as the rights of older people.

The commission will also make contributions to the Human Rights Council and will work with other commissions.

Mr Salmond said: "Respect for human rights is integral to our vision for a modern, inclusive Scotland."