MSPs have clashed over how an independent Scotland could become an independent European Union (EU) state.

The fresh division came during a debate on the findings of a Holyrood committee which looked into the potential route to membership after a Yes vote in September.

The SNP maintains that Scotland can make the transition in the 18 months between the vote and formal separation from the UK.

But opposition parties say negotiations may take far longer and possibly lead to Scotland being outside the EU.

There is no precedent for part of an EU country becoming a member in its own right and no country has been forced out.

But Labour and Conservative members drew attention to claims that Scotland would have to follow a long route like any new applicant.

Labour MSP Alex Rowley said the evidence showed that nothing was certain.

"The timescale for those negotiations as set out by the Scottish Government remains highly optimistic at best," he said.

"It is also clear there would need to be amendments to all relevant treaties of the European Union, that these would need to be agreed unanimously by all 28 members states."

Conservative MSP Jamie McGrigor said: "It is clear there is no automatic right that an independent Scotland would be admitted to the EU."

External Affairs Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "Independence will give Scotland a seat and a voice at the top table in Europe for the first time ever, giving us a direct say in protecting vital national interests like fishing and farming.

"Without a direct voice in these areas, we are forced to accept whatever deal is negotiated for us by the UK.

"Only independence will safeguard Scotland's place in the European Union, given the very real threat of UK withdrawal via the Prime Minister's proposed in-out referendum."

The debate was held days after the publication of a report on the EU by Holyrood's European and External Affairs Committee.

It sparked concerns that the SNP had "doctored" the final draft to reflect more pro-independence views.

The claim followed separate complaints from opposition members that the party of government is abusing its majority to stifle criticism.