SNP ruling body NEC orders review to 'increase transparency'

The SNP’s ruling body, the National Executive Committee (NEC) has ordered a set of measures in an effort to “improve governance and transparency” within the party.

The committee met on Saturday as police investigate the party’s finances in a probe which involved former chief executive Peter Murrell being arrested then released without charge.

It also comes after a row over the release of party membership numbers earlier this year.

Speaking with reporters after the committee met, First Minister Humza Yousaf said an interim report on the review is expected in June, with a full report due in autumn which will be made public.

He added that the party is “desperate” to appoint auditors, after it emerged last week that he was unaware before becoming leader that the previous auditors resigned more than six months ago.

Yousaf added: “I’m not concerned about what they might find. I’m concerned about the fact that, from my perspective, we could improve our governance and our transparency and I’m concerned about the fact that in six months we haven’t been able to find auditors.”

As part of the review, a working group will be appointed – consisting of both NEC members and non-NEC members of the party.

The NEC approved proposals for the appointment of a chief executive after former post holder Murrell stepped down suddenly last month.

SNP business convener Kirsten Oswald MP said: “The SNP is absolutely committed to improving governance and transparency – and today’s meeting by the NEC makes that commitment clear.

“Calling on party expertise and, where appropriate, external input, the working group will identify where governance and transparency can be improved.

“Decision by SNP’s ruling body today ensure swift action and put the party firmly on a campaign footing as the case for Scottish independence becomes more compelling than ever.”