Major Nicola Sturgeon investigation update as police send file to prosecutors

Detectives investigating Nicola Sturgeon over the SNP's finances have asked prosecutors for directions on the next steps in their inquiry.

The findings were an "advice and guidance report" about the former first minister and ex SNP treasurer Colin Beattie.

The party's former chief executive Peter Murrell, who is Ms Sturgeon's husband, was charged by police on April 18 this year in connection with the alleged embezzlement of party funds, and a report was later sent to the prosecution service.

Police have been investigating the SNP's finances since 2021, with the probe known as Operation Branchform.

Ms Sturgeon and Mr Beattie were arrested last year and both were released without charge pending further investigation.

On Thursday, a Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "On August 9 2024, we presented the findings of the investigation so far to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and we await their direction on what further action should be taken."

The Crown Office are continuing to consider the report received on Mr Murrell, which relates to "incidents said to have occurred between 2016 and 2023".

Mr Murrell stepped down as chief executive - a role he had held for more than 20 years - during the leadership campaign to succeed Ms Sturgeon.

The Crown Office said the matters are under consideration and they had nothing to add to their previous statement from May.