Sturgeon refuses to release police statement

Nicola Sturgeon, former First Minister of Scotland and former leader of the United Kingdom — Scottish National Party (SNP), has refused to release the written statement she gave to United Kingdom — Scotland as part of Operation Branchform, the investigation into SNP finances. Her lawyer, Aamer Anwar, stated that neither the written statement nor her police interview would be released, arguing that she has been exonerated and has no obligation to prove her innocence in the court of media opinion. Sturgeon was arrested in June 2023 but was not charged; she gave a 'no comment' interview and later submitted a written statement. The investigation led to the conviction of her estranged husband, Peter Murrell, who embezzled over £400,000 from the SNP and was jailed for five years and three months in June 2026. Sturgeon has maintained her innocence, claiming she was deceived by Murrell. Political opponents, including Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton and United Kingdom — Labour Party deputy leader Jackie Baillie, have criticized her refusal to publish the statement, calling for transparency and an independent inquiry. Current First Minister John Swinney has not backed such an inquiry. The decision has fueled suspicion and calls for further investigation.