ALEX Salmond has said the truth behind his political prosecution will see the light of day as soon as the coronavirus "nightmare" is over.

During the trial Salmond had argued that one of the women who claimed he sexually assaulted her had encouraged others to “exaggerate or make claims” against him in a campaign of “deliberate fabrications for a political purpose”.

Speaking outside the High Court in Edinburgh after the jury cleared him of all charges, the former First Minister made clear that more information, more facts and more evidence would soon come out.   

Salmond thanked the jury. He added: "I'd also like to thank the court service have been courteous beyond limit, over the last two weeks and to the police officers, who've manned this trial under these extraordinary circumstance.

"Obviously, above all, I'd like to thank my friends and family for standing by me over the last two years. I'd like to thank my brilliant legal team, who are absolutely exceptional.

"And I'd like to thank all of the people who've sent so many messages over the last 18 months or so, but particularly in recent days.

"As many of you will know, there are certain evidence that I would have liked to have seen led in this trial but for a variety of reasons we were not able to do so.

"At some point that information, that facts, and that evidence will see the light of day.

"But it won't be this day, and it won't be this day for a very good reason. And that is, whatever nightmare I've been in over these last two years it is as of nothing compared to the nightmare that every single one of us is currently living through. People are dying, many more are going to die."

Addressing directly the journalists and photographers outside the court, Salmond said: "What we are doing just now, and I know you've got a job to do, is not safe. I know it's your job but is aint safe.

"And my strong, strong advice to you is to go home, those who can are able to, take care of your families. And God help us all."