Scotland's top judge has suggested that there has been a "hold-up" within Operation Branchform.
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.
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.”
