ALEX Salmond has said he is “sad” about what the SNP have become as he reacted to the news of Peter Murrell’s arrest.

The former SNP leader was entering the BBC building in Edinburgh, a stone's throw from SNP HQ where police officers are conducting a search, when he was asked by reporters what he made of this morning’s news.

He said: “Well as you point out it’s a very live police investigation so I couldn’t really comment on the specifics.

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The National: Salmond was pictured entering the BBC building with Alba party members Chris McEleny, left, and Tasmina Ahmed-SheikhSalmond was pictured entering the BBC building with Alba party members Chris McEleny, left, and Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh (Image: PA)

“Look, I led the SNP for a long time so I’m very sad about what’s happening to it and indeed about what it’s become, but we should remember the cause for independence and the case for it has never been stronger.

“And that’s what myself and Alba concentrate on putting forward.”

Murrell, 58, was arrested on Wednesday morning and was taken into custody to be questioned by Police Scotland detectives.

Officers are also carrying out searches at a number of addresses as part of the investigation, including the Murrell-Sturgeon residence in Uddingston, South Lanarkshire, and SNP HQ in Edinburgh. 

The National: Alba Party Leader Alex Salmond speaks to the media outside the headquarters of the Scottish National Party in Edinburgh following the arrest of former chief executive Peter Murrell.Alba Party Leader Alex Salmond speaks to the media outside the headquarters of the Scottish National Party in Edinburgh following the arrest of former chief executive Peter Murrell. (Image: PA)

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Our reporter was live at SNP HQ as police officers searched the premises

A spokesperson for the force said: “The matter is active for the purposes of the Contempt of Court Act 1981 and the public are therefore advised to exercise caution if discussing it on social media. 

“As the investigation is ongoing we are unable to comment further.”