Scotland's first minister could face increased scrutiny if recommendations by a cross-party committee of MSPs are adopted.

Under the proposals made by the Scottish parliament's procedure committee, Labour's Jack McConnell would take questions for half an hour, an increase of ten minutes.

The time slot would also change from 3.10pm to noon on Thursdays.

"It was clear to our committee that increasing the time available for first minister's question time is widely supported," said chairman and Liberal Democrat MSP Iain Smith.

However, the changing of the time, decided to make it easier for school parties to visit, could be an issue of contention.

The BBC, whose Holyrood Live programme covers the question-and-answer session, has expressed concern that the move could have a negative impact on viewing figures.

However, McConnell is among those MSPs lending his support to a change.

As a result, the committee has suggested that a trial period be held, which if agreed by MSPs when they debate the report on Wednesday, could begin on September 11.

"We believe that regularity within the parliamentary week is very important," said Smith.

"The timetable does, after all, impact on school visits and broadcasters as well as MSPs. We intend to review the results of the change after Christmas."