Ash Regan has insisted her bill to criminalise the purchase of sex “cannot wait”, telling a Holyrood committee the proposed legislation would have “immediate effect” even before a single prosecution is secured.

Giving evidence to the Criminal Justice committee this morning, the independent MSP said she “welcome[s] the minister’s clear statement the government support criminalising the purchase of sex”, describing the announcement as a “significant moment for government”.

Ahead of giving evidence, Ms Regan also said she was determined to seek parliamentary consensus before next year's Holyrood election in May.

Her Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill seeks to criminalise buyers while repealing offences for those selling sex.

Offenders could face fines of up to £10,000

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