SNP embezzlement scandal fuels Westminster inquiry clash

Former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell pleaded guilty to embezzling more than £400,000 from the party between 2010 and 2022, spending the money on luxury items such as a motorhome, a Jaguar I‑PACE and high‑value toiletries. Murrell remains in custody awaiting sentencing.

The Scottish Affairs Committee in the House of Commons is debating whether to launch a parliamentary inquiry into the scandal. Conservative MP Andrew Bowie urges an investigation, while SNP Westminster leader Dave Doogan describes a potential probe as a “party‑political stunt” and an “unprecedented abuse” of the committee system. SNP leader John Swinney has rejected calls for a Holyrood‑based inquiry, arguing that police investigations have already examined the misconduct. Committee chair Labour MP Patricia Ferguson has confirmed the committee will consider the matter at its next meeting.