A new law has been proposed to crack down on the fraudulent use of blue disabled badges.

SNP MSP Dennis Robertson has launched a consultation on tough new powers as part of a bill he hopes to introduce in the Scottish Parliament.

His private members' bill would see officials being given stronger powers to confiscate badges which are not being used correctly.

The blind MSP for Aberdeenshire West, who is himself a blue badge holder, also wants an appeals process for applicants refused badges on eligibility grounds.

He added: "Finding parking, particularly in towns and cities, is difficult at any time. If you have a disability it can be even more difficult to find a space near your destination."