Michelle Thomson withdraws from SNP frontbench for course of Police Scotland investigation

SNP MP Michelle Thomson has withdrawn from her front bench role after Police Scotland confirmed it has launched an investigation into “alleged irregularities relating to property deals”, following the Tribunal which saw her solicitor struck off for professional misconduct.

The move effectively leaves Thomson outside the SNP, and sitting in the Commons as an independent.

Thomson’s solicitor, Chris Hales, was struck off by the Law Society after a ruling by the Scottish Solicitors’ Discipline Tribunal in May 2014 – a year before Thomson became MP for Edinburgh West – after being found guilty of professional misconduct in carrying out property deals on behalf of Thomson and her business partner.

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Police Scotland today confirmed it has been instructed by the Crown Office to launch an investigation into “alleged irregularities relating to property deals” following the Tribunal.

Thomson, who said she always acted within the law, has withdrawn from her role as the SNP’s Business, Innovation and Skills spokesperson in the House of Commons and as party whip while the investigation takes place.

The Discipline Tribunal ruling says: “The Tribunal consider that the features of these transactions were such that the Respondent must have been aware that there was a possibility that he was facilitating mortgage fraud, whether or not this actually occurred”.

The ruling adds that the “central role” of Michelle Thomson and M&F Property Solutions “should have set alarm bells ringing”.

Thomson said: “I am aware of the police investigation and will cooperate fully if required to do so.  I have always acted within the law and look forward to being cleared of any wrong doing. 

“I have this afternoon decided to withdraw from the party whip whilst an investigation takes place. Once the investigation is concluded I look forward to returning to play a full role in party activities.  I will be making no further comment on this matter."

Scottish Labour’s Public Service and Wealth Creation spokesperson, Jackie Baillie said: “This case is now a serious problem for First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Serious allegations have been made which could now be the subject of criminal proceedings.

“Michelle Thomson’s former lawyer has already been struck off for professional misconduct. Given that, her constituents are entitled to know if she will be interviewed by Police Scotland about these deals.

“These are very serious allegations about an SNP MP who is at the heart of business policy decision making in the party. We need full transparency from the people at the very top of the SNP about who knew what and when.”