Brexit ministers from both the UK Government and the Scottish Government have held their first meeting since their appointments.

Mike Russell, who was appointed by the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in August, met his UK Government counterpart David Davis to discuss the UK's approach to leaving the EU.

Following the discussions in London, the pair released a joint statement.

They said: "This was a positive discussion with an open exchange of views. While we clearly come from very different standpoints, we both recognise that a good working relationship is vital.

"We agree that Scotland, as well as Wales and Northern Ireland, should be fully involved in discussions about the UK's future relationship with Europe in line with the PM's commitment to a UK approach and objectives for the negotiation.

"Ministers will continue to be in close contact as part of a regular programme of engagement."

The Prime Minister has pledged to involve and listen to the devolved governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in the negotiations.

The First Minister has met the Prime Minister following her appointment and has also had a phone call with Davis.

At an appearance before the Scottish Parliament's Europe committee on Wednesday, Sturgeon criticised the UK Government's approach to the issue since the referendum on June 23.

She said: "The lack of any answers to basic questions about what the UK is actually seeking to achieve is just totally unacceptable and it becomes more unacceptable with every day that passes.

"The idea that it can be under a cloak of secrecy over the UK position is just untenable."

Overall, 52% of voters across the UK voted to leave the European Union but in Scotland 62% backed staying in the organisation.

In his first ministerial statement to the Commons since his appointment, Davis said: "Our instructions from the British people are clear. Britain is leaving the European Union.

"There will be no attempt to stay in the EU by the back door.

"No attempt to engineer a second referendum because some people didn't like the first answer."