Peter Murrell has been charged in connection with the embezzlement of funds from the Scottish National Party.

Police Scotland confirmed the 59-year-old man has been charged in connection with embezzlement.

Peter Murrell arrested

Officers arrested the former chief executive of the party and husband to Nicola Sturgeon this morning at 9.13am.

The force confirmed he was charged at 6.35pm after further questioning by Police Scotland detectives investigating the funding and finances of the party.

A spokesperson said: "A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service in due course.

"The man is no longer in police custody.

"As this investigation is ongoing we are unable to comment further."