SNP treasurer to 'step back' from role after arrest

SNP MSP Colin Beattie will step down as the party's treasurer after he was arrested in connection with a police investigation into the party's finances, he has said.

In a statement released through the party, Mr Beattie also confirmed he will be "stepping back" from his role on Holyrood's Public Audit Committee until the probe has concluded.

He said: "This afternoon I informed the party leader that I will be stepping back from my role as SNP national treasurer with immediate effect.

"I have also informed the SNP chief whip at Holyrood that I will be stepping back from my role on the Public Audit Committee until the police investigation has concluded.

"On a personal level, this decision has not been easy, but it is the right decision to avoid further distraction to the important work being led by Humza Yousaf to improve the SNP's governance and transparency.

"I will continue to cooperate fully with Police Scotland's inquiries and it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further on a live case."

Mr Beattie was arrested on Tuesday before being released without charge "pending further investigation".

First Minister responds

Humza Yousaf thanked Colin Beattie for his service as SNP treasurer and said a replacement will be appointed "as soon as possible".

In a tweet posted after Mr Beattie stood down from the role following his arrest, the First Minister said: "I want to offer my thanks to Colin.

"I know that his decision to step back from the role of SNP National Treasurer will not have been an easy one, but he has done so in the best interest of the party.

"A new Treasurer will be appointed as soon as possible."

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