THE Scottish Women’s Convention (SWC) has called on MSPs to back proposals to adopt the Nordic model in its approach to prostitution.

Dubbed “Unbuyable,” independent MSP Ash Regan’s Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill aims to outlaw the purchase of consent while offering additional support for women and girls being sexually exploited.

Launching the SWC’s report into the proposals just days before Holyrood is due to hold a stage one vote on its principles, chairwoman Agnes Tolmie said: “Our report reflects the voices of women in Scotland, particularly those with lived experience, who have been ignored for far too long.

“As we have listened to these women, one message is abundantly clear: prostitution is not empowering, it is deeply damaging and traumatising.”

She said: “We cannot keep pretending that this is a matter of choice when girls are being groomed and women are being exploited.  

“Scotland can choose to stand with women, or it can continue to protect an industry that depends on abusing them for male pleasure.

“We urge MSPs to listen to women, believe their experiences and to support this Bill.”