Sir David Steel said if politicians conduct a permanent campaign then voters "will be scunnered" by constant party bickering.

He appealed to political leaders from parties north of the border to stick to the solid work of the parliament - and leave the electioneering to the final weeks before polling day.

On a lighter note he said he was looking forward to seeing the new parliament building at Holyrood next year.

Sir David intends to stand down as presiding officer before the parliamentary elections.

Sir David told MSPs to curb the carping

Although he would not sit in the new chamber as presiding officer, he hoped he "would be invited back" for the opening ceremony.

He said: "It is going to be a stunning building of international quality, bringing people to see it.

"It's going to be a good workplace and I think the public of Scotland will flock to see it - they will be proud of it."

Sir David said that the controversial project, which has been beset by problems and rising costs, would prove to be a success.

"The building is being handed over to us in April or May - just in time for the election," he said.

Health scare

"The move in will then take place in the summer recess next year. This time next year when the parliament meets we'll be in the new building.

"I am of course sad that I won't be there but I hope they will invite me to the opening ceremony."

Sir David recently battled against prostate cancer.

He was given the all-clear to return to full-time work by doctors at Edinburgh's Western General Infirmary last month following successful radiotherapy treatment.

He said news of the disease had left him "pole axed".