Reform UK Scotland’s deputy leader has called for a public inquiry into what Nicola Sturgeon may have known about the embezzlement scandal involving Peter Murrell.
Speaking to GB News, Thomas Kerr likened Sturgeon’s recent comments about her estranged husband to Prince Andrew’s infamous interview, describing it as her own “Prince Andrew moment”.
During a BBC interview, Sturgeon opened up about the personal toll the scandal has taken on her, saying she continues to carry a sense of hurt and trauma after being caught up in the controversy.
She insisted she had no knowledge of any criminal activity, stating: “I absolutely didn’t know that he was committing crimes, and because of his actions, I was subjected to a two-year police investigation.
“I was exonerated. If there had been any evidence that I was involved or aware of what was happening, I would not have been cleared. Yet despite that, I still had suspicion hanging over me for a long time.
“Yes, I’m angry, but I’m also carrying a degree of hurt and trauma from this whole episode, which resulted in me being arrested and questioned by police. What he has done to me is something I think will take a very long time to recover from.”
Reacting to the scandal, Kerr argued that the Scottish Parliament should launch a full inquiry into what happened.
He said: “Nicola Sturgeon can shed as many crocodile tears as she likes, but I think that Laura Kuenssberg interview was her Prince Andrew moment, and it did not reflect well on her at all.
“What we’re seeing is a former First Minister trying desperately to stay relevant and repair her reputation.”
Kerr also claimed that Sturgeon repeatedly dismissed concerns raised about Murrell’s conduct while both were involved in the SNP.
He said: “Whether she knew what Peter Murrell was doing is ultimately a question for her, although I have my own suspicions. The suggestion that she wouldn’t have noticed things such as the camper van on her in-laws’ driveway just doesn’t add up.
“She consistently shut down critics within the SNP and dismissed people who raised concerns. The idea that we shouldn’t get to the bottom of this is madness.”
GB News presenter Emily Carver challenged Kerr, asking whether a public inquiry is something Scottish voters actually want.
Kerr replied: “The criminal investigation is over and Nicola Sturgeon has been cleared of any wrongdoing, but there are still serious questions about the SNP’s internal governance. Public money has also been involved.
“Many people in Scotland want answers about how this situation was allowed to continue for so many years, and I believe that’s why there should be a public inquiry.”
When host Cameron Walker pointed out that First Minister John Swinney has ruled out an inquiry, Kerr said he was unsurprised.
He said: “He’s doing everything he can to avoid discussing it. We’ve seen that over the past week. Both he and Nicola Sturgeon appear keen to sweep this issue under the carpet.
“But I firmly believe there must be an inquiry. We need to uncover exactly what happened and ensure nothing like this can happen again.”
Kerr concluded by arguing that both party members’ funds and taxpayer money had been affected.
He said: “This involves SNP members’ money, but it also involves public funds and a significant cost to taxpayers. It’s only right that Nicola Sturgeon and senior SNP figures are held accountable.
“I think an inquiry will eventually happen. John Swinney should take the lead, do what’s right for Scotland, and put the interests of the public first.”
