Murrell inquiry could help ‘restore public trust’ in politics, Labour claims

Labour insists “questions are piling up” over former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell’s embezzlement “crime spree” as it seeks to force Holyrood to hold an inquiry into the scandal.

With Scottish First Minister John Swinney repeatedly rebuffing calls for an investigation to take place at Holyrood, Scottish Labour will force a vote on the matter this week.

A motion to be debated on Wednesday insists that an inquiry is now needed “to restore public trust in Scottish politics”.

This could look at the “implications and lessons to be learned following the conclusion of Operation Branchform” – the Police Scotland investigation into SNP finances, which concluded with Murrell pleading guilty to embezzling more than £400,000 over 12 years.

Mr Swinney has steadfastly insisted no inquiry is needed at either Holyrood or the House of Commons because there has been a a lengthy police investigation.

Speaking last week, the SNP leader said: “We’ve had a police investigation, there can be no higher investigation and more forensic investigation than a police investigation.

“I therefore do not support the establishment of a parliamentary inquiry, because we have had an investigation and it convicted somebody for embezzling from my party’s funds.”

His comments came as concerns arose that the SNP may potentially have reclaimed VAT on some of Murrell’s fraudulent purchases – such as the £124,000 campervan which was recorded as a van on party paperwork.

Mr Swinney confirmed on Thursday that the party had begun discussions with His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs regarding this.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie said: “Questions are piling up about the circumstances surrounding Peter Murrell’s crime spree and with public money potentially misused, John Swinney’s ‘nothing to see here’ act is becoming increasingly untenable.”

She stated: “This is a matter of trust and integrity in politics and public life.

“If John Swinney has nothing to hide, he should welcome the chance to get answers on this sordid affair – but for some reason he is determined to try and dodge scrutiny.

“The SNP should have led the way setting up this inquiry, but instead it falls to Parliament to demand the truth.

“Scotland deserves answers and I hope on Wednesday MSPs across the chamber will back transparency over cover-up by voting for Scottish Labour’s motion.”