Scotland’s media reports Nicola Sturgeon cleared in SNP embezzlement case after almost two years under the spotlight. The media has reacted to the news – with the story dominating much of the Scottish newspapers and websites this morning.
Sturgeon along with the SNP’s former treasurer have been cleared in the probe. But Sturgeon’s husband, with whom she is now separated, is in court facing charges of embezzlement. Peter Murrell had been the SNP’s chief executive since 1999 but resigned in March 2023 amid a row over party numbers.
Nicola Sturgeon cleared in SNP embezzlement case
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Nicola Sturgeon: Never a ‘scrap of evidence’ against me in Police Scotland SNP finances probe
Explainer – The headline contains some elements of bias, primarily through its framing and reliance on a Strugeon’s personal statement. Highlighting her comment that there was “Never a ‘scrap of evidence'” is emotionally charged and dismissive.
- Key Takeaway – Speaking outside of her home near Glasgow just hours after being cleared over the Operation Branchform probe, Ms Sturgeon reiterated she had done nothing wrong.
The Scotsman reports Sturgeon saying she feels “vindicated” and “relieved to be cleared” adding there was never a “scrap of evidence” against her in the probe. Responding to media questions, the former party leader said: “As first minister of this country for the best part of a decade, I have the utmost respect for the police and for the prosecution authorities, and I’m never going to say or do anything to undermine that.”
Sturgeon completely in the clear: Free at last
Explainer – The headline contains clear bias, primarily through its use of emotive language and celebratory framing. Phrases like “completely in the clear” and “Free at last” are emotionally charged. “Free at last” has strong connotations, often associated with liberation from significant oppression or injustice, which may exaggerate the situation.
- Key Takeaway – Speaking outside her home in Uddingston, she told reporters it had been a day of “mixed emotions”
Daily Record declares “Free at Last” noting the ex-FM’s relief at the probe against her coming to an end whilst acknowledging she knew there was no evidence against her. Sturgeon had been advised that after a “very thorough investigation of all the evidence” there would be no action against her. But Peter Murrell – who is separated from Sturgeon – today appeared in court today charged with embezzlement.
Vindicated: Nicola Sturgeon cleared as SNP police investigation ends
Explainer – The headline contains noticeable bias, primarily through its choice of language and framing. The word “Vindicated” is a strong, positive term that implies not only that Nicola Sturgeon was cleared but that she was wrongfully accused or unfairly treated. This framing goes beyond reporting the facts and suggests a judgment of moral or legal victory. A more neutral term like “cleared” alone would be sufficient.
- Key Takeaway – ex-FM has been vindicated
The National Scot says “Vindicated” also picking up on the lack of evidence against the ex-FM and saying the investigation into the SNP’s former treasurer has also been dropped. The paper says the news came almost immediately after news broke that Sturgeon’s estranged husband Peter Murrell had appeared in Edinburgh Sheriff Court charged with embezzlement. He made no plea and was bailed. Murrell will return to court, but no date has been set.
Could donors and members be tempted back to the SNP now Ms Sturgeon has been cleared?
Explainer – The headlines contain elements of bias, primarily through their speculative framing and implied assumptions.
- Key Takeaway – SNP is relieved that Sturgeon has been cleared and is looking to reignite Scottish independence talks
The Herald asks whether donors and members could be tempted back to the SNP now the ex-FM has been cleared. The SNP has struggled to attract big money in recent years, almost certainly because of Operation Branchform. The paper says now the ex-FM has been cleared it could help bring Scots back to the party but until the entire probe is over, the mess still lingers over the SNP and Scottish independence.
