MSPs return to the Scottish Parliament today for the first time since the historic referendum vote.

Politicians from both sides of the argument will meet in their committees and in the chamber for a statement from the First Minister on the result of the referendum.

A debate on Alex Salmond's statement will then take place, with party leaders responding to the First Minister.

Presiding Officer, Tricia Marwick will take the unprecedented step of conducting Time for Reflection, which is normally carried out by a religious or community leader.

She is expected to outline what behaviour she expects from MSPs in the parliament following last week's vote.

The first meeting comes after a month-long break to allow campaigning in the referendum and the return co-incides with the row over whether the UK Government is looking to renege on handing more powers to Holyrood and, if not, what powers those will be.

SNP members will return knowing their party must choose a new leader following Alex Salmond's announcement he will resign as First Minister in November.