SNP treasurer Colin Beattie released without charge

Police say Colin Beattie has been released without charge, pending further investigation, following his arrest earlier

Author: Lewis MichiePublished 18th Apr 2023
Last updated 18th Apr 2023

SNP treasurer Colin Beattie has been released without charge, pending further investigation, by Police.

The MSP was arrested this morning as part of an on-going police investigation into the party's finances.

A Police Scotland statement said:

"A 71-year-old man who was arrested earlier today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party, has been released without charge pending further investigation.

"The man was questioned by Police Scotland detectives.

"A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

"The matter remains active for the purposes of the Contempt of Court Act 1981 and the public are therefore advised to exercise caution if discussing it on social media.

"As the investigation is ongoing we are unable to comment further."

This morning (April 18) Police Scotland said a 71-year-old man had been taken into custody to be questioned by detectives.

Earlier this month, former party chief executive Peter Murrell was arrested and questioned for more than 11 hours before being released without charge "pending further investigation". Mr Murrell is the husband of former first minister Nicola Sturgeon.

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