PATRICK Harvie will today unveil his party’s General Election manifesto saying Scottish Green MPs are needed to stop a “bonfire” of returning EU regulations.

The Scottish Greens’ co-convener is leading efforts to win the party’s first Westminster seat by standing in Glasgow North but has faced criticism after the party opted to fight just three seats.

Its manifesto, to be published in Glasgow, vows to oppose a hard Brexit, social security reforms and push for a new green economy, creating more than 200,000 jobs.

The SNP took Glasgow North in 2015 but Harvie believes he can win after positive local election results for the Greens and an improved performance in the parallel seat of Glasgow Kelvin at last year’s Holyrood election.

Scotland needs a Green voice at Westminster,” he said.

“A huge number of the social and environmental protections which have been achieved within the European Union will be transferred to the UK, where many Conservatives are openly calling for a bonfire of regulations. This will literally put people’s lives on the line.

“Greens led the way in achieving much of what’s now at risk, from capping bankers’ bonuses to controlling toxic chemicals. We have a plan to create over 200,000 high quality jobs for Scotland in the new economy.”

“And we will make the case for a social security system based on a universal basic income, to guarantee dignity for everyone and end the fear of poverty.”

Lorna Slater is standing in Edinburgh North and Leith, while Debra Pickering is standing in Falkirk.