Racist and gender-based bullying is on the increase in Scotland's schools, according to a Holyrood committee.

An inquiry by the Scottish Parliament's equalities and human rights committee concluded racism "has made a resurgence", gender-based bullying and harassment "appears to be commonplace" and bullying towards young LGBTI people "is still prevalent".

MSPs said they were "gravely concerned" by the extent and seriousness of the problem and have urged the Scottish Government to do more to tackle it.

The committee has made 29 recommendations, among them measures it wants the government to adopt in its forthcoming anti-bullying strategy.

These include taking a preventative approach, improving research to understand the extent and nature of bullying, mandatory recording of incidents and more training for teachers.

The government and councils are also urged to ensure consent and healthy relationships are taught from the beginning of primary school, amid evidence of children as young as 12 being coerced into sexual activity.

Committee convener Christina McKelvie said: "We heard some gut-wrenching and heartbreaking stories.

"One stark reminder of the reality faced by far too many bullied young people is that 27% of LGBT children have attempted suicide.

"We have also heard of some inspiring and great practice going on around Scotland - and there are schools where bullying is now seen as not cool.

"We are trying to bottle that attitude change and roll it out across the whole country."

The Scottish Government will now consider the committee's report.

A spokeswoman said: "Bullying of any kind is unacceptable.

"That is why it is important for all schools and local authorities to have anti-bullying policies in place, and it is vital that local authorities and teachers challenge any racist, homophobic and abusive behaviour in our schools.

"The Scottish Government funds its national anti-bullying service, respectme, to support children, young people and their parents.

"This works with schools and communities to build confidence and the capacity to address bullying effectively."