The first talks aimed at securing a new deal on more powers for Holyrood were "constructive" with "important principles" agreed between all parties.

Lord Smith of Kelvin said those involved in the discussions in Edinburgh had "committed to work together to achieve a positive outcome".

All five parties represented at Holyrood were involved as the Smith Commission - set up by the UK Government after last month's independence referendum - held its first full meeting.

In the run-up to the independence ballot, David Cameron, Ed Miliband and Nick Clegg all vowed that substantial new powers would be transferred to Scotland if the country voted to stay part of the UK.

The aim of the Commission is to draw up a "substantial and cohesive package of powers" in a bid to bring about a "durable but responsive democratic constitutional settlement which maintains Scotland's place in the UK and enhances mutual co-operation and partnership working".

After yesterday's talks, Lord Smith - who recently chaired the Organising Committee for the Commonwealth Games - said: "I was pleased with our meeting today.

"We have good people round the table, each with their own deeply held views, who have committed to work together to achieve a positive outcome to this process."