Staff who work on buses in Scotland have been promised improvements in their working conditions.

Charlie Gordon, MSP for Glenrothes, launched a consultation document that proposes bus workers who lose out in a competitive tendering process should receive similar protection to those who are employed in rail. The latter are protected by relevant transfer of undertakings (TUPE) regulations. This would mean an agreed protocol on the employment rights of bus workers,

The consultation document also proposes to involve local authorities and local community groups in the operation of bus services.

John Quigley, Unite regional secretary for Scotland, said: "Unite warmly welcomes the consultation proposals on the operation of bus services and the conditions of those working within the industry. We believe the consultation could be a springboard for legislation, which will provide an enhanced role for local people and local authorities in shaping bus services within their communities."

"The consultation is designed to ensure Scotland has the best possible bus service provision and that we can attract and retain people within the industry."