The former chief executive of the Scottish National Party (SNP), Peter Murrell, is scheduled to appear in court for a second hearing concerning allegations of embezzlement, just ahead of the Holyrood election in May. This development ensures the long-running police investigation will remain a central issue in the Scottish political landscape.
Charges and the Path to Court
Mr Murrell, the 61-year-old estranged husband of former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, was formally charged in April 2024 as part of Operation Branchform, a police probe that has lasted almost four years. Sources close to the case have now confirmed a second hearing will take place before the parliamentary vote on 7 May.
The allegations centre on the accusation that he embezzled party funds, with the activity ‘said to have occurred’ between 2016 and 2023. The investigation specifically looked into how more than £600,000 of crowdfunding donations were used by the SNP.
The Political and Legal Timeline
The timing of this hearing is politically sensitive, landing squarely in the run-up to the Scottish election. While any potential trial, should the case proceed, may not occur until 2026, the legal process will cast a long shadow over the campaign. A police file on the embezzlement allegations was handed to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) in May 2024.
In an unusual step during the general election campaign that same month, the Crown Office issued a statement insisting that prosecutors ‘operate independently of political influence’. Mr Murrell made no plea during his initial appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court in March and was granted bail. He has since had an application for solemn legal aid approved.
Wider Impact and Investigation Costs
Operation Branchform has had far-reaching consequences. The home shared by Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon was searched by police in April 2023. While Ms Sturgeon and former SNP treasurer Colin Beattie were both arrested as part of the inquiry, prosecutors stated they would face no charges. Ms Sturgeon described the investigation period as ‘difficult’ and ‘frustrating’.
The financial cost of the probe has been significant. Latest figures from Police Scotland reveal that expenditure on Operation Branchform has exceeded £2.2 million. The case continues to unfold as a major political scandal, with its next chapter set to play out in court just weeks before voters go to the polls.
