Criticising Mr Farage personally, Mr Swinney said: “There is a very alive and active threat to our security from the aggression of Russia and I think Farage is an accomplice to the Russian agenda and an apologist for the Russian agenda.
Asked if he accepts the anger among some Scots about declining living standards and rising costs, the First Minister said: “I don’t in any way try to say that there isn’t anger in our society.
On Tuesday, the Scottish Government’s Budget passed its final stage at Holyrood, with support from the Scottish Greens, the Scottish Liberal Democrats and the sole Alba MSP, while Scottish Labour abstained in the vote.
The summit, to take place at the end of April, will bring together political leaders and civic society but will not result in an electoral pact, the First Minister said.
“I’ll provide the hosting environment, the courtesy and respectful debate to bring people together to say we are going to do things in a way that makes sure our country is protected from the bigotry that Farage represents.
