Calls for Nicola Sturgeon to be suspended from SNP following arrest

First Minister Humza Yousaf is being urged to consider suspending former FM Nicola Sturgeon from the SNP if she refuses to step down. The calls come after Sturgeon was arrested and released without charge on Sunday as part of an ongoing investigation into SNP finances. 

MSP Ash Regan, who lost to Yousaf in this year’s SNP leadership contest, expressed her belief in “decisive action.” She says there is a precedent within the party for individuals involved in such issues to voluntarily resign and suspend their membership until matters are resolved. According to an SNP spokesperson, the party is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Asked if the former first minister should be suspended if she does not quit the party, Ms Regan added: “I think Humza should consider it under those circumstances, yes, if she doesn’t resign.

“We do have a code of conduct in the SNP, which says members should refrain from conduct likely to cause damage or hinder the party’s aims.

“I think Nicola will no doubt be considering whether to resign from the party at the moment.”

Sturgeon has denied any wrongdoing. 

Over the last two years, Police Scotland has been examining the handling of £660,000 in donations given to the SNP by independence activists for a future independence referendum campaign.