A new culture body is to be created by the government

Linda Fabiani has published plans to replace two artistic quangos with a new body.

Ms Fabiani said the new organisation, Creative Scotland, would put creativity "at the heart of the nation's life."

The Creative Scotland Bill dates back to the previous administration, but the SNP has decided to go ahead with only part of the package.

this government is committed to putting culture at the heart of our plans to develop Scotland's overall prosperity Linda Fabiani Culture minister

The proposals had included the notion of "cultural entitlements".

But the incoming SNP administration argued that there was already legislation saying councils must provide cultural activity in their area.

The draft legislation would set up a new national cultural body by merging the Scottish Arts Council with Scottish Screen.

This would be tasked with promoting an "understanding, appreciation and enjoyment" of the arts and culture in all sections of society.

Launching the draft bill, Ms Fabiani said "We are currently experiencing a cultural renaissance and this government is committed to putting culture at the heart of our plans to develop Scotland's overall prosperity."