A WEST of Scotland MSP has called for the Scottish Government to be more "optimistic" about post-Brexit opportunities.

Jamie Greene MSP said the SNP must start outlining its plans for making the move out of the EU a success, rather than “complaining from the side-lines”.

The Conservative MSP told that despite the uncertainty which struck immediately after the vote – the decision is made and people and businesses across Scotland want to move on.

He said: “The Scottish Government could be focusing on ambitious plans for fishing, farming and tourism in the wake of the UK leaving the EU.

"But instead, since the vote the nationalists have merely bemoaned the result and compounded uncertainty by threatening another independence referendum.

Mr Greene added: "What we need to be aware of are the opportunities which will be afforded to Scotland as a result of the UK leaving the EU.

"But the question is, what steps is the SNP taking to assist businesses to take advantage of these opportunities?

"We know that the fishing industry sees a great future outside the EU, but what is the Scottish Government doing to help develop this?

"And what is it doing to develop a new farming policy for Scotland, given that support payments will have to be paid domestically?”