Former Liberal Democrat minister Jo Swinson has warned that Scotland has become so divided on independence that everyday issues are neglected.

The defeated East Dunbartonshire MP - still only 35 after a decade in Westminster - has refused to rule out a return to politics but is "focusing on an exciting new career".

However, she thinks Scotland has become far too divided on one, narrow constitutional issue.

Asked about the Liberal Democrat prospects in May's coming Holyrood elections, she said: "Anybody can look at the polls and see where public opinion is.

"I think one of the things which is disappointing about the political environment is things are still so divided along the lines of the referendum.

"From the experience I had speaking on the doorsteps, while people do still have strong feelings about the future of the country and its place in the UK or otherwise, there was also, I think, a growing feeling for people who don't want to live in such a divided society.

"People spoke to me about friends they had not been able to chat to for the last eight or ten months, or family members they still saw but could not go near on any political issue because things got far too heated.

"We need to find some way of pulling together as a country and focusing on improving the lives of everyday Scots rather than getting tied up in constitutional questions the whole time."

Ms Swinson was speaking to The Herald as part of a widespread survey of ex-MPs, what they are doing now and how they see Scottish politics post SNP Tsunami.

She has taken up several non-executive or advisory posts since last May.

Still largely based in London, Ms Swinson is a director of Clear Returns, a business that helps retailers cut down on returns.

She said: "I have got various projects I am putting together an interesting portfolio.

"There are clearly a lot of new opportunities and it is very different to being in politics.

"You know when you sign up for politics that there are no guarantees. It is one of those jobs that even if you do a good job that you will stay in your job. I did not take it personally.

"The feedback I got from constituents who had supported the SNP was not that they thought I had done a bad job, it was national reasons; they wanted to support independence."

Asked if she would run again, she replied: "Never say never, but at the moment I am focusing on my new career and these opportunities which are very exciting.

"I am also writing a book about the inequality of men and women in society. I have plenty on my plate night now. Who knows what the future holds given that I am 35."

John Nicholson defeated Jo Swinson

In her new business career Ms Swinson says she wants to focus on those areas where she made an impact in power.

She said: "The best thing I did as a minister was so much greater than any other role I held, such as taking in the payday loans industry.

"The one thing I was most proud of was the introduction of shared parental leave, which I campaigned for in opposition and was delighted to deliver in government. Men are now more able to take on their responsibilities as fathers.

"I have an opportunity to go back to the business world - where I was before - and use my government minister experience in business.

"I was 25 when I was elected I don't feel I lost my youth in politics.

"It was a huge privilege to represent East Dunbartonshire for 10 years and serve as a government minister for three years.

"The experience was fascinating. So I have no complaints and no regrets."