Peter Murrell embezzlement sparks calls for Westminster inquiry into SNP finances

Former Scottish National Party chief executive Peter Murrell admitted stealing £400,310 from the party between 2010 and 2022, using the funds for personal purchases such as a motorhome, luxury watches and everyday items. He has been remanded pending sentencing.

First Minister John Swinney has rejected calls for an independent parliamentary inquiry, saying the five‑year police investigation has already addressed the matter and that a new probe would add nothing.

Shadow Scottish Secretary Andrew Bowie wrote to the chair of the UK Parliament's Scottish Affairs Committee urging a Westminster inquiry, describing Swinney's opposition as “strange and sinister” and arguing that “systemic failings” in the SNP’s financial governance need to be examined so lessons can be learned by all parties.