[Politics] Nicola Sturgeon pulls out of event as police search continues

[BirSaNN]

Nicola Sturgeon has pulled out of a speaking event after her husband was questioned by police on Wednesday.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was arrested and then released without charge pending further investigation into party finances.

A police search resumed on Thursday morning at the couple's Glasgow home.

Ms Sturgeon said Màiri McAllan, the cabinet secretary for net zero would take her place at the Climate of Change event.

Her spokesperson said: "In order to keep the focus of this event on the critical issue of the climate emergency and ambassador Patricia Espinosa's contribution, Nicola Sturgeon has made the decision not to participate this evening.

"She is grateful to the festival and ambassador Espinosa for their understanding, and to Màiri McAllan for taking her place."

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Mr Murrell was arrested at 07:45 BST on Wednesday and released shortly before 19:00.

Ms Sturgeon was at the house when police arrived but said she had "no prior knowledge" of Police Scotland's plans.

Mr Murrell was questioned while officers searched their Glasgow home and SNP headquarters in Edinburgh.

A significant police presence remained at the house on Thursday. A police tent was still in place and a van could be seen reversing into it at about 07:00.

Several officers were stationed outside while plain clothes officers could be seen entering and leaving the house, one carrying two large rolls of bubble wrap.

One of the uniformed officers was wearing white protective foot coverings while other officers could be seen carrying them after leaving the house.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Police Scotland said: "Officers carried out searches today at a number of addresses as part of the investigation.

"A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service."

Mr Murrell, who has been married to Ms Sturgeon for 13 years, resigned as SNP chief executive last month, after holding the post since 1999.

link: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-65199565