Ex-SNP chief Murrell bought necklace for Sturgeon during Shetland campaign visit

Former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell reportedly told a Shetland jeweller 'I'm the man with the money' while purchasing a necklace for his then-wife, former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. The purchase was made during a by-election campaign visit to Shetland. Murrell has faced significant legal scrutiny in connection with SNP party finances.

Former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell made a memorable impression on a Shetland jeweller when he visited the islands during a by-election campaign, reportedly declaring «I'm the man with the money» before purchasing a necklace for his then-wife, former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The anecdote has emerged amid continued public and legal scrutiny of Murrell and the finances of the Scottish National Party. Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for many years, a role that placed him at the centre of the party's administrative and financial operations.

The Shetland visit was part of a by-election campaign effort, during which Murrell apparently took time to browse local shops. The jeweller's account of his declaration — boastful in tone — has drawn attention given the subsequent controversies surrounding his handling of party funds.

[Peter Murrell](/politicians/peter-murrell) was arrested in 2023 as part of a police investigation into SNP finances. The investigation, which also drew in other senior party figures, focused on allegations concerning how funds raised for a second independence referendum were used. Murrell subsequently resigned as chief executive.