The government says that if it decides, following the consultation, to change the date of the local elections it would need Parliament's approval by the end of October.

BBC: A ballot box

Up-to-date statements of government policy, which would normally have involved public consultation, to be in place before major projects are considered in the planning system.

BBC: Planning shake-up unveiled

Mr Bryant, shadow justice minister, said there had been an "extraordinary" lack of consultation with devolved assemblies about the proposed poll date and its impact on devolved elections.

BBC: Ministers under fire over consultation on AV referendum

Mr Salmond said October 18, 2014 was a "possible date" for the independence referendum, but insisted the matter would not be decided until the close of a Scottish government consultation - which he said had already received more than 3, 000 responses.

BBC: First minister's questions