Mr McKee has said he is seeking an urgent meeting with the UK Government as concern grows about the lack of information on the scheme.

The minister said there is still little detail on what resources will be allocated to the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) or how it will work. Meanwhile, he has pointed out that a promised consultation process involving the UK Government and the devolved administrations, which managed the EU funds, has not progressed.

The EU funding has been worth more than £700 million to Scotland over the 2014-2020 programme period.

In turn, Mr McKee has written to UK housing, communities and local government minister Luke Hall seeking a meeting ahead of the UK Spending Review on 25 November. It follows the cancellation of several previous meetings by Mr Hall and his predecessor Simon Clarke.

Mr McKee said: “Time is running out. Countries across the EU will shortly learn of the structural funding they can expect to receive over the next seven years. Yet with less than two months to go until the end of the transition period, we are still awaiting the most basic details from the UK Government about the scheme that will replace it.

“The EU funds have played a vital role in supporting Scotland’s economic and social policy aims. As we begin our economic recovery from coronavirus (COVID-19), the UKSPF must replicate that support. The lack of information, and the absence of ministerial engagement, is unacceptable.

“I urge the Minister to meet me to discuss these matters as soon as possible.”