A focused gender action plan is needed to boost the role and contribution of women to the Scottish economy, according to a report.

The review by Professor Lesley Sawers of the Scottish Business Board said government, business and wider Scottish civic society must come together to address inequality.

She has made a number of recommendations including encouraging a move away from labelling issues as "women" or "feminist" concerns.

The report proposes the development of an index to measure the impact of gender policies and programmes, as well as a national mentoring database to match young women and business needs.

It says: "This review has identified no single action plan or overview that seeks to bring these issues and the private, public and third sectors together in Scotland, or to look at ways in which government and businesses can work more effectively in partnership to implement a "gender action plan" to drive change and economic growth.

"Many women and businesses have told us this is what they would like to see. Whilst we do not believe that this will be a panacea to address gender inequality across Scotland, we do consider it will be a significant first step."

Prof Sawers added: "In recent years, significant progress has been made in addressing the challenges women face in their careers and caring roles."

She added that major issues still remain and the review has identified an action plan that can deliver "real and lasting change for generations of women."

Scottish Secretary Alistair Carmichael said: "With a continued willingness to work together we can tackle the culture and behaviours that hold women back from making their full contribution to economic growth, unlocking the potential of our entire workforce."

Annabelle Ewing, Scotland's minister for women's employment, said: "The Scottish Government is absolutely committed to helping women in Scotland achieve their potential in the labour market."