Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and ex-husband of Nicola Sturgeon, has pleaded guilty to embezzling over £400,000 from the party. The thefts occurred between 2010 and 2022, with Murrell using the funds to purchase luxury items including a motor home, a Jaguar SUV, a VW Golf, boutique cosmetics, iPads, and a Lalique salt and pepper set worth £2,618.
Appearing at the High Court in Edinburgh, Murrell admitted to embezzling £400,310.65 after reaching a deal with prosecutors. Lord Young described the crime as a “gross breach of trust.” Murrell was remanded in custody and faces a lengthy prison sentence, with sentencing scheduled for 23 June.
Nicola Sturgeon, the former SNP leader and first minister, issued a statement denying any knowledge of the thefts, saying she was “utterly appalled” and had been “misled.” Current SNP leader John Swinney also expressed feelings of betrayal, stating he was “gutted” by the revelation. He noted that Murrell’s position made it inconceivable to party members that he would steal from them.
Political opponents, including Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay and Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie, questioned the credibility of Sturgeon and Swinney’s denials. Baillie called for Swinney to provide compensation to SNP members who had donated money that was stolen.
