A PANEL of MPs has launched an inquiry into the development of relations between the Scottish and UK governments since devolution in 1998.

The Commons Scottish affairs committee will begin its work amid growing tensions between the governments on issues ranging from the Gender Recognition Reform Bill to the Deposit Return Scheme and the power to hold a referendum on independence.

Committee chairman Pete Wishart said: “In the inquiry, we will trace how intergovernmental relations have developed since the [Scotland] Act was passed.

“We will be taking a closer look at recent changes to intergovernmental processes, including how the UK’s four governments work together post-Brexit to manage policy development and divergence.

“As governments look to accommodate this constitutional change, we will question whether the tools for effective co-operation between Scotland and Westminster operate as best they can.”

Former Labour MP Ian Davidson, who chaired the committee between 2010 and 2015, told the Star: “There has been little genuine interest in comparing and contrasting policy over the years to learn from one another, other than to score constitutional points.

“Our committee was refused permission to even enter Scottish Parliament to hold evidence sessions.

“There is a legacy of missed opportunities to co-operate.”