John Swinney accused of secrecy over Operation Branchform
One rival said the failure to be open was 'typical' of the SNP's approach
JOHN Swinney has been accused of 'secrecy' over cops' SNP fraud probe.
Rivals blasted the First Minister — nicknamed Honest John — for refusing to say when and how he learned Nicola Sturgeon was in the clear.
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Scottish Tory finance spokesman Craig Hoy said the failure to be open was 'typical' of the SNP
Credit: Alamy
Detectives previously arrested her and ex-Nats treasurer Colin Beattie.
But both were told in March they were no longer under investigation.
Her estranged husband Peter Murrell has been charged with embezzlement.
Mr Swinney's officials said publishing any communications about Ms Sturgeon's position would 'risk' justice being 'seriously impeded'.
But ministers previously shared an email from a top civil servant to then First Minister Humza Yousaf informing him of ex-SNP chief Mr Murrell's arrest in 2023.
Scottish Tory finance spokesman Craig Hoy said the failure to be open was 'typical' of the SNP's approach to transparency.
He said: 'It is typical of the secrecy we've come to expect from the SNP Government that they won't reveal what John Swinney knew and when.
'Whenever there's an awkward story or scandal, their first instinct is to disclose as little information is possible – and this policy seems to extend to their quangos too.'
The Scottish Government said: 'It would not be appropriate to comment as there are live criminal proceedings.'
Police and the Crown were asked for comment.
John Swinney says he's not been asked by cops for Branchform chat
We previously told how the FM was accused of overseeing an 11-year "fiasco" amid a fresh delay to one of two new ferries for islanders.
Swinney faced jeers as it emerged delivery of the MV Glen Rosa to CalMac had been put back nine months until next year.
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