Mired in scandal

Sarwar wants to know exactly what Sturgeon and Yousaf knew - and when they became aware of issues

- ANDREW QUINN

ANAS Sarwar claimed yesterday that the SNP is "mired in scandal" following the arrest of ex-chief executive Peter Murrell.

On the campaign trail in Rutherglen and Hamilton West, the Scottish Labour leader said that the SNP was "known for their lack of transparency".

Murrell, who is married to former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, was arrested on Wednesday morning in connection with an investigation into the funding and finances of the SNP.

The couple's home in Glasgow was raided but 58-year-old Murrell was released after being questioned for nearly 12 hours.

Sarwar said: "The SNP is mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves and focused on their own priorities, not the people's priorities.

"Just like across the country, people in Rutherglen face the twin crises of an economic crisis and an NHS crisis. At this time they need an MP but they also need a government on their side.

Sarwar said there are "serious questions" for Sturgeon and First Minister Humza Yousaf over the investigation.

He added: "More broadly, on the Peter Murrell case, the SNP are known for their lack of transparency, their lack of accountability, that it's one standard for them and another standard for everyone else.