There are lots of Scots whose views at present are not represented by any of the political parties

Nick Griffin

But mainstream political parties have warned voters to reject what they describe as extremist and racist policies.

Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland, Mr Griffin confirmed that the BNP was considering standing in the Scottish Parliament elections.

"It is too early to say yet whether we will be, but especially in the light of some recent opinion polls in Scotland there clearly is political space for us," he said.

"There are lots of Scots whose views at present are not represented by any of the political parties."

Nick Griffin said votes would not be wasted

He said the BNP would stand on stopping any asylum seekers who were not entitled to be in the UK from coming into the country.

"It is becoming a problem, and because the south-east of England is full up it is a problem which Scots are going to see more and more," he said.

"I would also say that we are the only party genuinely opposed to globalisation, which is bringing increasing poverty and uncertainty to working class communities across Britain."

Mr Griffin said that the BNP - which has not fielded a candidate north of the border since 1999 - may also propose higher tax rates to deter "English settlers" in Wales and Scotland.

Speaking to The Scotsman newspaper, he said: "I am very much in favour of the idea that there can be different taxes for local people and local needs.

'Real action'

"This would protect communities from incomers, which is important in Scotland."

He admitted that the party's election performances in Scotland had been "abysmal".

"We think it's time to start to get down to some real action which may tip the balance in Scotland," he said.

He also expressed a belief that the Scottish Parliament's electoral system gave his party a good chance of gaining support.