Glasgow East MP Natalie McGarry charged in relation to alleged fraud offences

28/09/2016
Nathanael Williams

MP linked to offences connected with the groups Women for Independence and the SNP Glasgow Regional Association

NATALIE MCGARRY, the MP for Glasgow East, has been charged “in connection with alleged fraud offences”, according to Police Scotland.

The alleged offences, that reportedly involve a five-figure sum, are believed to be linked to McGarry’s prior involvement with the campaign group Women for Independence (WFI).

There are also alleged charges in relation to her involvement in the operations of the SNP's Glasgow Regional Association.

"Following an interview she was charged with several alleged offences, including embezzlement of funds, breach of trust and an offence under the Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013.” Aamer Anwar

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "On Tuesday September 27, a 35-year-old woman was charged in connection with alleged fraud offences.

"A report will be sent to the procurator fiscal."

Initially elected as one of 56 SNP MPs that were swept in the 2015 General Election tide, the 35-year-old had the party whip withdrawn while the allegations were first investigated. Since November last year, McGarry had been suspended from the party but now sits as an independent MP.

On its social media account the campaign group WFI said: “We will be making no public comment on today's news.”

“We will be making no public comment on today's news.” Women For Independence

The MP has previously insisted there has been "no wrongdoing on her part".

Speaking to BBC Scotland, Aamer Anwar, human rights lawyer and her legal counsel, said: "Following an interview she was charged with several alleged offences, including embezzlement of funds, breach of trust and an offence under the Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013.

"She was released and there will now be a report to the procurator fiscal."

Picture courtesy of YouTube

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