SNP auditor flags missing documents as party approves accounts

The SNP’s new auditors have flagged an issue with the party’s accounts, relating to income from memberships, donations and raffles.

The party has said there was “no suggestion that the accounts do not present an accurate picture of the party’s financial position”.

The ruling National Executive Committee approved the accounts for 2022 on Thursday evening, where the auditor’s comments were highlighted.

The auditor, AMS Accountants Group, said the party was missing original records for some cash and cheques in the current and prior financial year.

It said: “During the course of our audit, we identified that original documentation in respect to some items of cash and cheques received for the current and prior year, relating to membership, donations and raffle income were not kept by the party.

“We have been unable to satisfy ourselves by alternative means regarding the completeness of income in respect of the above limitation in scope.

“Consequently we are unable to determine whether any adjustment to income is necessary in the current or prior year and the potential impact on opening reserves accordingly.”

The party said this “qualification” had resulted in a “limitation in scope of the audit” but there was "no suggestion of misappropriation of funds".

SNP Treasurer Stuart McDonald said: “I’m pleased to confirm that the Scottish National Party’s accounts have been approved by NEC for the year 2022 and we are in a position to meet our statutory obligations.”

He added: “We have already engaged with auditors and implemented administrative changes in accordance with their recommendations and will continue to do so. And our learning from this process will also feed into the governance review which is underway, and which will see us adopt the best practice and procedures in terms of oversight.”

McDonald also said the party was “optimistic of a return to surplus”, ensuring it would be ready for the next general election, due next year.

Legally the party has to file its audited accounts with the Electoral Commission by 7 July.

There had previously been concerns the party would miss this deadline after former auditors Johnston Carmichael quit last year.

AMS Accountants Group was appointed in May.