Peter Murrell re-arrested by police investigating SNP finances

Police Scotland say a "59-year-old man" was taken into custody and is being questioned

Author: Alice FaulknerPublished 18th Apr 2024
Last updated 19th Apr 2024

The former chief executive of the SNP, Peter Murrell, has been re-arrested by police in connection with an investigation into the party's finances.

Police Scotland said a 59-year-old man was taken into custody this morning, and is being questioned by detectives in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

The husband of former first minister Nicola Sturgeon was previously arrested as a suspect in April last year.

Police Scotland said: "A 59-year-old man has today, Thursday, 18 April, 2024, been re-arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

"The man, who was previously arrested as a suspect on 5 April, 2023, was taken into custody at 9.13am and is being questioned by Police Scotland detectives.

"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 at this time."

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: “This is another incredibly concerning development in this long-running investigation.

“It is essential that Police Scotland is able to proceed with this investigation without interference.”

Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy said: “This is an extremely serious development and it’s essential that all SNP staff and politicians, past and present, cooperate fully with Police Scotland.

“This complex investigation has been going on for three years and it’s vital that the SNP are fully open and transparent so that the police can finally conclude their probe."

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