A LABOUR MSP has apologised after using the c-word in a question to Derek Mackay in the Scottish Parliament.

Anas Sarwar had meant to say a new Scottish currency would lead to austerity in the event of independence.

Mr Sarwar mistakenly told the Finance Secretary the SNP's plan would lead to “more c***s".

It follows the SNP changing its policy last month to drop the pound and adopt a new currency "as soon as practicable" after a Yes vote, rather than waiting a decade, as set out in the party's growth Commission.

Mr Mackay appeared not to notice the Glasgow MSP’s slip of the tongue.

“I don’t accept that at all,” he replied.

However Mr Sarwar’s error was quickly circulated on social media, forcing him to correct the Scottish Parliament’s official record.

He tweeted: “I meant CUTS! CUTS! I really hope my mum wasn’t watching.

“I have just sent what must be a pretty unique email to the Official Report to clarify!”

A second Labour MSP then made the same mistake while talking about climate change.

In a Labour debate, Mid-Scotland and Fife’s Alex Rowley referred to the pressing need to address “the climate c***, crisis in this country.”

The Scottish Parliament routinely corrects mistakes by MSPs in the Official Report, although usually they involve statistics rather than swearing.