Sturgeon to join campaign trail ‘in ways I think are helpful’

Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed she will be on the campaign trail as the SNP fights the General Election – but she refused to say whether she will be seen alongside John Swinney.

The former first minister and party leader told journalists at Holyrood on Wednesday she will support candidates where necessary “from time to time” ahead of the vote on July 4.

Asked if she is expected to support the new First Minister in his bid for the SNP to return to Westminster with the most Scottish seats, Ms Sturgeon said her former deputy will have his “own” campaign programme.

Ms Sturgeon has kept a relatively low profile amid Police Scotland’s Operation Branchform, which saw her arrested and later released without charge as officers investigate the spending of £600,000 of SNP funds.

A report has been sent to the prosecution service after former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, who is Ms Sturgeon’s husband, was charged with embezzlement.

Former party treasurer and current MSP Colin Beattie was also arrested and released pending further investigation.

Charges have not been brought against Ms Sturgeon or Mr Beattie and Police Scotland say the investigation “remains ongoing”.

Asked if she will be on the campaign trail, Ms Sturgeon said on Wednesday: “I will be campaigning in the election from time to time, yes.”

Pressed on whether she will campaign alongside the First Minister, she added: “John will have his own programme and I will campaign in ways that I think are helpful to candidates.”

Ms Sturgeon also said it is “not for me to decide” whether she remains an asset to her party.