Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and ex-husband of Nicola Sturgeon, is set to face serious allegations of embezzling nearly half a million pounds from the party. Court documents reveal that Murrell is accused of misappropriating £459,046.49 from SNP funds over a span of more than 12 years. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for next Friday at the High Court in Glasgow.
Allegations of Misuse of Funds
The charges against Murrell detail an extensive pattern of financial misconduct, including the unlawful acquisition of luxury items such as jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles. Among the purchases cited in the allegations is a high-end Niesmann and Bischoff Smove 7.4e motorhome, which he allegedly bought for £124,550 using party funds. Murrell is said to have manipulated sales documentation to present this purchase as a legitimate expense for the SNP.
In addition to the motorhome, Murrell is accused of using £57,500 of party money to contribute towards a Jaguar I-Pace valued at £81,000 in 2019. The court papers also claim that he created fraudulent invoices for purported business expenses, including a £12,042 charge to Apple Retail and £2,478 to the German retailer Manufactum. Additionally, he allegedly used SNP funds to pay for a parking ticket.
Background and Previous Arrest
Murrell’s tenure as chief executive lasted for 22 years before his arrest in 2023 as part of Operation Branchform, an investigation led by Police Scotland into the financial activities of the SNP. In April 2024, he was officially charged with embezzlement. During a preliminary court appearance last year, Murrell did not enter a plea and was subsequently granted bail.
Notably, Nicola Sturgeon, who served as the First Minister of Scotland, was also questioned by detectives during this investigation in June 2023 but was later cleared of any wrongdoing. In her memoir, “Frankly,” published in August, Sturgeon expressed her shock and distress over the police raid on their home, describing the scene as more reminiscent of a crime scene than a place of refuge.
Implications for the SNP
The allegations against Murrell have raised significant concerns regarding the financial integrity of the SNP, a party that has been at the forefront of Scottish politics. The allegations could have far-reaching consequences for the party’s reputation and its future leadership. As the case unfolds, many within the party and the public will be observing closely how the situation is addressed.
Why it Matters
The outcome of this case is crucial not only for Peter Murrell but also for the SNP’s standing in Scotland and beyond. The allegations of financial impropriety come at a sensitive time for the party, which has faced scrutiny over its governance and financial management. As the political landscape continues to evolve, transparency and accountability will be vital for restoring public trust in the SNP and its leadership. The ramifications of this case could significantly impact the party’s future trajectory as it navigates this unprecedented challenge.
