Election fraud case against Lib Dem MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton dropped

Alex Cole-Hamilton - Image credit: Alex Cole-Hamilton

The case against the Lib Dem MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton over claims he broke electoral law has been dropped. 

The Scottish Lib Dems’ campaign chair was reported to prosecutors over his declaration during the 2016 Scottish Parliament elections.

The Home Office announced yesterday “after careful consideration”, there would be “no proceedings at this time".

The Lib Dems did not suspend Cole-Hamilton during the process and insisted they had "full confidence" he would be cleared of any wrongdoing.

Edinburgh Western MSP Cole-Hamilton said he “always knew” the case would be dropped, adding that “while this has been a long process, I have sought to fully co-operate with the investigation at every stage.

"Throughout all of this, my focus has never drifted from my efforts to represent the communities of West Edinburgh to the best of my ability. I love my job and work hard at it.

"I'm glad this matter is closed and I'm grateful to police and the fiscal service for their dedication in pursuit of the truth both in this case and in all that they do."