Mr Goodwillie was ruled – on a balance of probabilities – to have raped Denise Clair in a civil case in 2017.

Ms Clair is now attempting to launch a private prosecution. Her case was raised at Holyrood by Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay.

He said: “No credible explanation has ever been given as to why the Crown Office did not prosecute. Frankly, the case stinks.

“Denise was forced to take civil action against the two men and a judge agreed that she had been raped. She has since asked the government to fund a private criminal prosecution, but continues to be left in limbo.”

Mr Swinney said: “I think the government has taken too long to consider the request that Ms Clair has made to us.

“And when I saw the news reports at the weekend, I asked for there to be greater urgency put into the engagement with her agents on this question.

“I am dissatisfied with how long it has taken, I express my apology through Mr Findlay to Ms Clair today.”