A Scottish parliamentary inquiry has found there is no "robust" evidence to support Donald Trump’s claims that windfarms are hurting Scotland’s tourism industry.

The US tycoon has claimed Scotland’s renewable energy policy is tantamount to "financial suicide".

Donald Trump is currently engaged in a battle with the Scottish government to prevent the building of wind-farms off the coast of his Menie golf course.

He gave evidence at the inquiry in April. When asked to provide evidence for his arguments, Mr Trump replied: "I am the evidence".

He said: "I am considered a world-class expert in tourism, so when you say, 'where is the expert and where is the evidence', I'm the evidence."

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Holyrood’s economy committee has said Scotland’s green energy targets can be met. But Scottish Ministers have warned a lack of finance is putting the eco plans at risk.

The government’s target is to have electricity generated from renewable sources by 2020.

Economy committee convener Murdo Fraser said: "The electricity target can be achieved, but only if the issues outlined in this report are acted upon.

"Our recommendations are crucial to the success of the renewables industry in Scotland, and focus on issues such as access to finance, the planning system, infrastructure development and investment in skills."

The Tory MSP said the Scottish and UK governments would have to work together to meet some of the aims in the report.

Mr Fraser added: "The overwhelming message from investors was that strong leadership, and a robust and reliable investment climate and subsidy regime is critical for the targets to be met.

"The committee regrets the reluctance of some banks to invest and in the current financial environment, is concerned that the renewables industry will not have access to the finance it needs to grow, which will ultimately put the targets at risk."

(IT)