Full Breakdown
Legal Challenge Over SNP Referendum Fund
By Drooid · · How we work
Background of the Investigation
Operation Branchform, a police inquiry launched in 2021, examined the handling of money that had been “ring-fenced” for a future Scottish independence referendum. The investigation later led to former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell being convicted of embezzling roughly £400,000 from the party. No criminal charges were brought specifically concerning the referendum fundraising, as prosecutors said a fraud case would require evidence that the solicitor of the money intended to defraud donors.
Funding Campaign and Financial Targets
Former SNP fundraiser Colin Campbell has initiated a civil claim alleging a fraudulent breach of trust in the way authorities dealt with the referendum fund. He secured a pro-bono opinion from Roddy Dunlop KC, Dean of the Faculty of Advocates, who described the claim as “close to irresistible.” Campbell’s campaign initially seeks about £30,000 to cover the first stage of the court action, including preparation, filing and potential costs. The fundraiser now carries a stretch target of £400,000, noting that the case could become significantly more expensive if it proceeds further. Campbell has indicated he will seek a Protected Expenses Order to limit his personal exposure should the claim fail.
Official Responses
Police Scotland has reiterated that the relevant evidence and any potential criminality were already examined and that no further criminal inquiries are required. The SNP has stated that issues surrounding the £600,000 referendum fund were fully explored during the police investigation. A Crown Office spokesperson emphasized that prosecution decisions are made independently by prosecutors and Crown Counsel, based on the evidence and in accordance with the law, and declined to comment on the threatened civil action.
Prospects and Potential Costs
Campbell argues that the case raises broader questions about public confidence in Scotland’s policing and prosecution system. He also warned that if the initial £30,000 target is not met, the action would likely be abandoned and donations refunded. The outcome of the civil claim will determine whether further legal costs are incurred and could set a precedent for how ring-fenced political funds are overseen.