Peter Murrell sentencing LIVE as Nicola Sturgeon’s estranged husband back in court

Murrell’s offending came to light after police began receiving complaints about potential mismanagement of the SNP’s finances in March 2021.

This led to an investigation, during which police uncovered evidence of Murrell’s embezzlement.

Murrell’s guilty plea has led to intense scrutiny for his former wife Nicola Sturgeon, who has denied knowing of his crimes – saying she was “deceived, misled and betrayed”.

The former SNP leader said she has been “completely exonerated” after a “two-year-long, very forensic police investigation” which saw police officers search the home she and Murrell had shared.

Sturgeon was arrested and questioned as part of the police investigation into the SNP’s finances, which was known as Operation Branchform, but Police Scotland confirmed she would face no action.

The case has also led to widespread calls for inquiries into Murrell’s wrongdoing.

Former first minister Jack McConnell said a joint inquiry by both Holyrood and Westminster committees should examine the matter.

Shadow Scottish secretary Andrew Bowie also called on Westminster’s Scottish Affairs Committee to initiate an inquiry.

SNP and Green MSPs have blocked one being launched at Holyrood.