MSPs are being urged to “unite behind Scotland’s right to decide” ahead of a vote to hold another independence referendum this week.

First Minister John Swinney is set to ask the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday to formally request the transfer of powers from the British government to Scotland to allow a referendum on independence to be held.

Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth said today that the request comes as Holyrood now consists of the “highest number of pro-independence MSPs ever elected” after the election at the beginning of the month.

She said: “We have an SNP government focused on the people of Scotland’s priorities – and a Westminster government that is only ever focused on itself.

“That is why more and more people are coming to the conclusion that we should take all decisions here in Scotland – and be done with the failed Westminster system for good with the fresh start of independence.

“The first step to securing that fresh start will take place on Tuesday – and I am urging Parliament to unite behind Scotland’s right to decide a better future.”