Ruth Davidson has branded the First Minister a "fundamentalist" after plans were revealed for a draft Referendum Bill.

The Scottish Conservatives leader slammed Nicola Sturgeon for putting "independence first, last and always" despite a "lack of support for a re-run" of the 2014 referendum.

Sturgeon revealed in her welcome address to the SNP conference that a draft bill will be tabled next week.

Responding to the speech, the Scottish Tory leader said: "Her comments show she has given up on speaking for Scotland and is now solely playing to the SNP gallery.

"This isn't the action of a First Minister of Scotland but an SNP fundamentalist who puts independence first, last and always.

"We had a referendum on independence two years ago. We were told it was once in a generation.

"Despite the lack of support for a re-run, the SNP has now gone back on its promise to respect that result."

Davidson added: "People can be assured that the Scottish Conservatives will oppose any attempt to drag Scotland into a second referendum - and will demand that the SNP puts its focus back on the day job."

Sturgeon said in her speech: "I am determined that Scotland will have the ability to reconsider the question of independence - and to do so before the UK leaves the EU - if that is necessary to protect our country's interests.

"So I can confirm today that the Independence Referendum Bill will be published for consultation next week."

Addressing Prime Minister Theresa May, the First Minister added: "If you think for one single second that I'm not serious about doing what it takes to protect Scotland's interests, then think again."

Historically, the SNP was split between "gradualists", who sought incremental increases in Scottish autonomy and "fundamentalists" who refused to compromise on absolute sovereignty.

Since devolution, and in particular following the SNP's 2007 election victory, the terms have fallen out of favour to be replaced by a debate on the timing of a referendum on independence - and, since 2014, the timing of a follow-up vote.

The draft Referendum Bill will be published for public and parliamentary consultation within days, although the Scottish Conservatives, Scottish Labour and the Scottish Liberal Democrats have vowed to oppose it.

The Scottish Greens, who support independence, said they "look forward to the consultation".