Scottish Labour pushes for inquiry into Peter Murrell embezzlement scandal

Peter Murrell SNP embezzlement Scottish Labour inquiry John Swinney public trust

Former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell pleaded guilty to embezzling more than £400,000 from the party over 12 years. Scottish Labour is demanding a parliamentary inquiry, arguing it is needed to restore public trust in Scottish politics. A motion to hold the inquiry will be debated in Holyrood, with Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie and leader Anas Sarwar urging MSPs to back it.

First Minister John Swinney has rejected calls for an inquiry, saying the police investigation and court conviction are sufficient. He has also confirmed discussions with HM Revenue & Customs over possible VAT reclaimed on purchases such as a £124,000 campervan recorded as a party van. Labour says the scandal raises broader concerns about misuse of public money, possible VAT fraud and the handling of funds originally ring‑fenced for a second‑independence referendum.

Sources

John Swinney blowing up own independence dreams over Peter Murrell scandal [www.scottishdailyexpress.co.uk]

2 months ago

Murrell inquiry could help ‘restore public trust’ in politics, Labour claims [www.standard.co.uk]

2 months ago

Peter Murrell scandal is damning for 'toxic' SNP and an inquiry must be launched [www.dailyrecord.co.uk]

2 months ago