SNP leader John Swinney fears postal vote problems could affect election results

Mr Swinney also said on the programme that it was “crystal clear” the best way to resolve debate over Scottish independence would be to hold another referendum on the matter.

He was asked whether a failure to secure a majority of seats in the general election would be a signal from voters that the issue should not be pressed until the next Scottish elections in 2026.

Mr Swinney replied that 2021 Holyrood elections had provided a “clear mandate” for a second referendum, but that the Westminster government had “folded its arms and refused to engage”.

He said: “That is to deny democracy. I just think it would be healthy for our democracy if the United Kingdom government would actually engage, and enable the right of the people of Scotland to determine their own constitutional future.”

He said he would look to take forward the controversial gender recognition bill in the event of there being an incoming Labour government but he insisted the “safety of women and girls” would be “at the heart” of his decision-making.

The Scottish Parliament legislation was blocked by Conservative government at Westminster using a Section 35 order on grounds that it would interfere with the operation of the UK-wide Equality Act.

The first minister was speaking ahead of the SNP launching its “battle bus” during the final week of campaigning for parties.

Elsewhere in Scotland on Friday, the deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner will hold a rally for Labour’s New Deal for Working People.

Scottish Liberal Democrats leader Alex Cole-Hamilton is in New Sefton to highlight the extent of sewage dumping in Scotland, while Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross is campaigning in Peterhead.