The Church of Scotland has joined leading charities, faith groups and trade unions in urging Scottish MPs to uphold the Lords amendments to the Welfare Reform Bill.

SNP deputy leader Nicola Sturgeon has urged MSPs of all parties to restate the Claim of Right and commit themselves to the principle of Scottish sovereignty.

Scottish Greens have called for the transfer of new powers to come without strings attached and for the urgent opening up of the debate to what kind of independent Scotland the voters are being offered.

Affirming Christians and equality campaigners have expressed disappointment at the Church of Scotland's negative response to same-sex marriage proposals.