AN extra £1m has been allocated for attracting business tourism following Scotland's success in 2014.

Enterprise Minister Fergus Ewing announced the cash for next year after research showed a previous £1.4m spend helped generate £143m for the economy.

The Scottish Government's Conference Bid Fund will match contributions from Scottish destinations bidding to host eligible conferences in 2015/16.

Mr Ewing announced the cash during a debate in the Scottish Parliament in which the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games was hailed as the event that put Scotland on the world stage during a successful year.

Mr Ewing outlined the scale of the success the Games brought to Glasgow and the wider Scottish economy through tourism, and said there were 690,000 visitors spending £282m during Glasgow 2014.

He praised all those who played a part in the Games: "I am really proud there are so many people in Scotland that made this year so special."

MSPs praised the organisation of the Games and the people of Glasgow for ensuring the thousands of visitors had a special experience.

Patricia Ferguson, Labour MSP for Maryhill and Springburn, said the efforts of everyone involved was deserving of a special honour.

She said: "On Sunday the BBC Sports Personality of the Year will honour the outstanding athletes in their fields.

"It may be biased but I think there should be a special recognition award for the city of Glasgow for all it achieved."

John Mason, Shettleston SNP MSP said the success needs to built on for the future.He said: "I would like to see more hotels and restaurants in the East End. I believe there is a market for this. The west and south of the city have quality hotels and restaurants."

Mr Mason also said he would like to see more camping opportunities in the city.

He said people liked to have the option of campsites in the city which allows them more available cash for food and drink and other activities.

While welcoming and encouraging the growth in UK and international visitors, Mr Mason wanted to make more of the home market.

He said: "Can we do more to encourage people in Scotland to take holidays in Scotland?"