Fraud Probe into Publisher of Nicola Sturgeon’s Speeches Finds No Criminality
Police in Scotland have concluded their investigation into the publisher of Nicola Sturgeon’s speeches, Sandstone Press, and have found no evidence of criminal activity. The probe was launched after it was revealed that the publisher had received £295,000 of public funding before releasing a collection of the former First Minister’s speeches. However, after assessing the information provided, Police Scotland announced that no criminality had been established.
The controversy surrounding the funding emerged in November 2021 when it was disclosed that Sandstone Press had received public money from Scottish Government agencies Creative Scotland and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. The book, titled Women Hold Up Half The Sky and featuring a foreword by crime writer Val McDermid, was promoted during the run-up to the recent Holyrood election and was published just four days later.
Sandstone Press, which was managed by Robert Davidson, an SNP supporter, denied any wrongdoing. However, the company subsequently went into liquidation last month. The publisher’s assets and books have now been acquired by Vertebrae Publishing, a company based in Sheffield.
Following the conclusion of the investigation, Nicola Sturgeon expressed her desire for the matter to be resolved as quickly as possible. Speaking publicly at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the former First Minister revealed that she had only learned of her husband’s arrest when police officers arrived at her door in April. Sturgeon, who resigned from her position as First Minister recently, emphasized her trust in the process and the police while asserting her innocence.
The investigation into Sandstone Press and the subsequent conclusion by Police Scotland highlight the complex nature of public funding in the publishing industry. The controversy surrounding the use of public money raises questions about transparency and accountability in the allocation of funds. Critics argue that the case involving Nicola Sturgeon’s speeches demonstrates the need for greater scrutiny and oversight when it comes to the distribution of public funds to private enterprises.
While the investigation found no evidence of criminality, some may view the situation as an example of ethical concerns surrounding the relationship between political figures and publishers. The fact that Sandstone Press collapsed into liquidation may raise further questions about the propriety of its financial dealings.
As with any case involving public figures, it is important to examine the facts objectively and allow for due process to take its course. The conclusion of the investigation into Sandstone Press may provide some closure, but it also highlights the need for ongoing scrutiny and transparency in Scotland’s publishing industry.
