NHS patients continue to face long waits at Scotland’s accident and emergency units, according to the latest figures.

Despite the Scottish government target stating that 95 per cent of those attending A&E be seen within four hours, Health Secretary Michael Matheson has come under fire as the figure continues to hover between 60 and 70 per cent.

Statistics revealed by Public Health Scotland show that 63.5 per cent of patients presenting in the week up to November 19 were seen within four hours of their arrival, while 13.1 per cent people waited more than eight hours, and a further 5.5 per cent waited more than a staggering 12 hours to be admitted, transferred or discharged.

The data is the latest blow to Mr Matheson, who already faces calls for his resignation over reports that he misled the public about the source of an £11,000 data bill on his parliamentary iPad.

Scottish Labour’s Dame Jackie Baillie said: “Our NHS is on the brink of disaster as we head into winter — but we are stuck with a lame-duck Health Secretary.

“[First Minister] Humza Yousaf must do the right thing and sack Michael Matheson so we can get a new health secretary in post to drive down waiting lists and protect our NHS this winter.

“Scottish Labour has repeatedly called for action to ease pressure on hospitals by tackling delayed discharge, supporting NHS staff, and stopping waiting lists spiralling with a comprehensive catch-up plan.”

Mr Matheson said: “I am clear that A&E performance is not where it needs to be and we are working with boards to support the delivery of sustained improvements.

“As we enter the challenging winter period, I would like to thank staff for their continued exceptional efforts in the face of sustained pressure.”