Today over a hundred young Scottish people will be taking part in National Discussion Day, a National Conversation youth participation event in Edinburgh.

As part of the SNP administration's national consultation on the future of Scotland the young people will present findings from local peer discussion groups to the First Minister, the chief executive of Young Scot (the information body running the consultation), and representatives from the business and legal sectors.

The Scottish Government reports that interaction with the initiative has so far been position, with over 5,000 online submissions and 1,000 young people going to one of the local consultation events.

"Today young people prove their value, ambition and enthusiasm for Scotland. The energy with which the Young Scot consultation has been met sends a clear signal that our citizens of the future want to play a part in the decisions that affect them, their families and their communities," said First Minister Alex Salmond.

"Already the online questionnaire has given us clear evidence that Scotland's young people are engaged with the issues affecting the nation, with a range of opinions and full of ideas. Reason and debate have long been recognised among Scotland's strengths and that's why it's great to see the next generation confirming our international reputation.

"This is in stark contrast to the disappointing and negative response from the UK Government to the possibility of change for Scotland. The willingness of our young people to debate and consider the choices they face and the responsibilities they involve is a great sign of hope for the future in every aspect," he added.

The full results of the online questionnaire are due to be published shortly.