The Scottish Executive is to begin a consultation exercise on new regulations for bouncers.

In a speech to the British Security Industry Association, Deputy Justice Minister, Angus MacKay, is expected to concede that regulations must be tightened up.

With more and more people working in the security industry, there are concerns that effective background checks are not being carried out by some businesses.

Police believe some bouncers are using the industry as a cover for underworld activities, such as selling illegal drugs and laundering money.

In Aberdeen, a registration scheme for door stewards was introduced after the death of a 35-year-old offshore worker, who was fatally injured when he was thrown out of a nightclub in the city.

Licensing body

Now the public will be asked whether this sort of scheme should be extended nationwide.

At Westminster, a bill to set up a licensing body for all security company employees is expected to be passed in June.

The Scottish Executive says a similar move could be considered in Scotland.

A spokesman said ministers are discussing a range of options from a tighter voluntary code to full legislation.