MSPs have called for the public, and especially those with “lived experience” of prostitution, to share their views on a Bill that could see men jailed for buying sex.

Proposed by Alba MSP Ash Regan, the Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill aims to target those who buy sexual services by creating a new criminal offence of paying for a sexual act.

Those convicted of buying could face up to six months in jail and fines of up to £10,000, while those selling would be decriminalised and have any past convictions quashed should the  Bill be passed.

Launching the call for views, which will run until September 5, criminal justice committee convener Audrey Nicoll said: “This Bill raises important questions on prostitution in Scotland and how it is considered by our laws.

“We want to hear from a range of voices on whether they welcome these provisions.

“We are particularly keen to hear the views of people with lived experience, on whether they support the proposals or not, and whether the changes this Bill proposes will help achieve its ambitions.”