Currently, investigations can only begin following a referral from the first minister. But the Scottish Ministerial Code will now be strengthened to enable independent advisers to investigate potential breaches whenever they feel it is warranted.

In a further reform, where a breach is established, advisers will be able to provide advice to the first minister on appropriate sanctions.

The independent advisers will also be given a role in scrutinising ministers’ declarations of interests so they can offer advice on avoiding actual or perceived conflicts of interest.

Mr Swinney said: “The people of Scotland rightly expect ministers, including myself, to be held to the highest standards.

“The 2023 Ministerial Code already set an extremely high bar in terms of standards in public life and these updates to the Scottish Ministerial Code, which are, collectively, the most significant since independent advisers were introduced in 2008, will further increase transparency and scrutiny.

“These changes, and others which will be confirmed when the new code is published, will ensure we keep the public trust and continue to deliver for the people of Scotland.”