The Scottish National Party has unveiled its manifesto promising a cut in fuel duty north of the border.

The party claims the election is about "who can best speak up for the people of Scotland".

The nationalists' blueprint, published on Friday, says that SNP MPs will work to deliver independence for Scotland as soon as possible.

The SNP says that only through independence can Scotland achieve lasting prosperity.

John Swinney, the SNP leader, said: "We have always been trusted to fight for the Scottish interest and that's why an SNP vote in the Westminster election next month is so important.

"With a stronger voice in Westminster we can start creating a better Scotland now. The more SNP MPs we have at Westminster the more Scotland's voice will be heard and our influence will be greater."

Swinney will reveal the party's plans for education, crime, health and jobs. He said the SNP "passionately believes in Scottish independence" saying party could "make a real difference to life in our country."

He argued that the nationalists have three main goals. The party will "drive Scotland forward to independence, completing the powers of the Scottish parliament, "protect Scotland from the worst failings of Westminster rule" and "deliver the best deal for Scotland".

The SNP says there will be no tax rises that are not detailed in the manifesto and it pledges to reduce the duty levied on fuel. Under the SNP those earning over £100,000 would pay a new 45 per cent upper tax rate.

The party will also overhaul the tax system to make it more transparent.

Swinney criticised stealth taxes, saying he will tell voters how much they are paying in "hidden taxes".

He will also unveil plans for a major roads improvement programme north of the border. The M8 and A9 roads would be upgraded by an SNP government.

A national health care commission will be established by the SNP, with 1500 extra nurses to be recruited for Scots hospitals.

The nationalists also pledged to freeze prescription charges and abolish dental charges. In recent days the party has criticised Labour after it was revealed that the number of GPs in Scotland was falling.

The party is to set out a £260 million investment programme in health, education and law and order.

The nationalists are also pledging new policies to tackle crime and commit an SNP government to reducing red tape in the criminal justice and courts system.