Key Points
- Scottish First Minister John Swinney stated that the timing of Peter Murrell’s embezzlement hearing is a matter for the courts.
- Peter Murrell, former SNP chief executive, faces eight charges of embezzling over £459,000 from party funds between 2010 and 2023.
- Preliminary hearing initially set for February 20 in Glasgow has been rescheduled to May 25.
- Allegations include misuse of funds for luxury items like a motorhome, cars, jewellery, and Amazon purchases sent to family addresses.
East Lothian (Edinburgh Daily News) February 14, 2026 – Scottish First Minister John Swinney has insisted that the timing of the preliminary hearing for former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell on embezzlement charges remains a decision for the courts alone.
Murrell, 61, stands accused of diverting £459,046 from SNP accounts over 12 years, with prosecutors alleging he spent the money on personal luxuries including a £169,911 motorhome and a Jaguar I-PACE.
What did John Swinney say about the hearing delay?
Swinney made his comments following a recent court hearing involving Murrell, emphasising judicial independence in scheduling proceedings, as reported by the East Lothian Courier.
As reported by East Lothian Courier staff of East Lothian Courier, the First Minister declined to intervene, stating the matter lies entirely with the judiciary.
What are the details of the embezzlement charges?
According to UPI and BBC News, Murrell faces eight charges including embezzlement and falsifying documents to conceal thefts from SNP funds between August 2010 and January 2023.
How were the funds allegedly misused?
Prosecutors claim Murrell bought luxury goods, cosmetics, jewellery, and vehicles using party money, with false invoices created to disguise transactions, as detailed in indictments covered by The Scottish Sun.
What is the latest on the court schedule?
The preliminary hearing, originally due on February 20 at Glasgow High Court, has been moved to May 25, with the venue confirmed as Glasgow, according to multiple outlets including UPI.
Murrell was charged in April 2024 following Operation Branchform police probe; he made no plea at Edinburgh Sheriff Court and remains on bail.
