Scotland's top judge suggests Operation Branchform has been held up

Police Scotland launched Operation Branchform in 2021 to examine the party’s use of funding and has charged former chief executive – and the husband of Nicola Sturgeon – Peter Murrell in connection with alleged embezzlement.

Sturgeon and former party treasurer Colin Beattie were both arrested last year but released without charge, pending further investigation.

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Lord Carloway, who is stepping down from his role as Scotland's Lord President – the country's most senior judge role – was asked by broadcasters about Operation Branchform.

He said: "I know absolutely nothing about Operation Branchform. I don’t know where the hold-up is, whether it’s with the police or the Crown Office.

The judge added: "It looks as though there is a hold-up, yes.”

Questioned if the length of time taken for Operation Branchform is acceptable, Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney previously told the PA news agency: “This is a live investigation and it’s important it’s not added to by any commentary by politicians.”