Police are currently looking into a new sexual assault allegation against Alex Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland. The allegation was reported by a woman shortly after Mr. Salmond passed away last month while attending a conference in North Macedonia. This allegation is said to be non-recent.
It has been revealed that around two years ago, up to six women approached the Scottish National Party to lodge complaints about Mr. Salmond’s behavior. These complaints were of a sexual nature and were reported to Ian McCann, the party’s compliance officer, and then brought to the attention of the SNP’s chief executive at the time, Peter Murrell. However, these complaints were not taken any further.
The SNP has stated that its disciplinary processes can only be invoked against current SNP members, and they are preparing for the possibility of more women coming forward with similar claims against the former party leader. There were warnings given to young female MSPs, MPs, party workers, and civil servants to avoid being alone with Mr. Salmond.
Several complaints of inappropriate sexual behavior, dating back to the 1980s, were reported to the party, but since Mr. Salmond was no longer a party member or employee, an internal investigation could not proceed. Previously, Mr. Salmond was acquitted of 14 counts of sexual assault and attempted rape in March 2020.
The relationship between Mr. Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon, his former ally, and successor, was severely strained by the charges brought against him. Sturgeon’s approval of a government inquiry into allegations of Mr. Salmond’s misconduct further fueled the conflict between the two. The inquiry’s flawed procedures and subsequent forwarding of findings to Police Scotland led to a criminal investigation.
Despite Mr. Salmond’s acquittal, there were concerns about the evidence’s weakness and the nature of the charges brought against him. His defense argued that his actions were part of office banter and were consensual. Following his acquittal, Mr. Salmond hinted at unreleased evidence that he believes could implicate individuals who encouraged false accusations against him.
Police Scotland has confirmed that they are assessing the information regarding the new sexual assault allegation against Mr. Salmond. His solicitor has been approached for comment on the matter.
