Alex Salmond wants to return to Holyrood

Mr Salmond, 48, resigned as an MSP in 2000 to lead the SNP at Westminster.

But speaking on the BBC's Newsnight Scotland programme the Banff and Buchan MP said he had always intended to return at the next election.

Mr Salmond, who led the SNP for a decade, previously spoke of his desire to return north of the border to his "political home".

The former SNP leader said he would prefer to serve in the north east of Scotland on his return.

I've said consistently I'd do that at the 2007 election, if, of course, elected by the party and elected by the people Alex Salmond

He told Newsnight: "When I went back to Westminster I made it clear that I wanted to return to the Scottish Parliament.

"I've said consistently I'd do that at the 2007 election, if, of course, elected by the party and elected by the people."

Mr Salmond has represented the Banff and Buchan constituency since 1987.

He was succeeded as leader by John Swinney who is leading the SNP for a second parliamentary term.

Jamie Stone MSP, secretary of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, said: "Mr Salmond's decision to give up his Westminster seat and attempt to return to Holyrood is a spectacular U-turn.

"It confirms that even the SNP know that Mr Swinney's leadership has passed its 'sell-by' date.