Paedophiles can prey on children via the internet

It follows a call form the Tories for Scottish legislation targeting paedophiles who seek to "groom" children.

The party said that a new Sexual Offences Bill would address the problem in England and Wales but no action was planned for Scotland.

Anyone convicted of "internet grooming' south of the border would face a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.

During question time clashes at Holyrood, Scots Tory leader David McLetchie warned that this would lead to a potential legal loophole.

I want there to be absolutely no doubt that we intend to be part of that international crack-down on internet porn and on grooming on the internet Jack McConnell First minister

He said: "There is a very real concern that a gap may develop in the law in this matter north and south of the border which might be exploited."

First Minister Jack McConnell said existing aspects of Scots law, such as anti-fraud and breach of the peace legislation, could be used to tackle internet grooming.

Mr McConnell also defended the executive's decision not to allow Westminster to legislate for Scotland on the matter.

And he said a review was under way with a view to bringing forward legislation which could be even tougher than that in England.

He said: "We decided it would be absolutely correct for us to pursue our own legislative route to ensure that there are new and similar penalties in Scotland on this matter.

"We are currently considering those penalties and I want there to be absolutely no doubt that we intend to be part of that international crackdown on internet porn and on grooming on the internet.