SCOTTISH Labour deputy leadership challenger Kezia Dugdale has called for greater devolution of powers to councils and communities.
The Lothians MSP accused the SNP of a "relentless process of centralisation" which has caused a loss of local accountability for policing, transport and economic development.
Speaking during a visit to the Western Isles, she said Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the Crofting Commission, Caledonian MacBrayne ferries and the national police force were among a list of bodies which should have greater local oversight.
She said: "In recent years, we have seen a relentless process of centralisation in Edinburgh. This is something that affects all parts of Scotland but is seen most clearly from the periphery.
"Nationalism and devolution are two very different animals.
"The Nationalists believe that everything should be run on a Scotland-wide basis, with power residing in Edinburgh as close to ministerial control as possible."
She said Labour should create local manifestos for all parts of Scotland in the coming general election.
She added: "Not only will we reverse the centralisation process within government, we will also apply the same principle to our own policy-making.
"The whole point of devolution is to take government closer to the people and to tailor policy to their needs."
The call echoes that of leadership candidate Jim Murphy, who has backed "devo max within Scotland".
Ms Dugdale, Scottish Labour's education spokeswoman, is standing against North Ayrshire and Arran MP Katy Clark in the election for deputy leader.
Voting closes tomorrow (Weds) and the result of the leadership and deputy leadership contests will be announced on Saturday.
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