SNP news – latest: Humza Yousaf says party 'does not operate in a criminal way' after Colin Beattie arrest

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SNP leader Humza Yousaf said he "did not believe" the party was acting criminally after party treasurer Colin Beattie was arrested. this morning.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, who is also MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, is the second in relation to the investigation into the use of more than £600,000 in donations to the party destined for an independence referendum.< /p>

When asked if he was operating in a criminal manner, Mr. Yousaf told reporters: "No, certainly I don't believe so at all , no."

When asked if he was surprised by the behavior of Mr Beattie's arrest, he said: "Well, yes, of course I am surprised that a of my colleagues was arrested. This is a very serious matter, indeed."

Mr Yousaf said he wanted to discuss "relevant matters" regarding Mr Beattie's role as SNP treasurer - and his role in Scottish Parliament's Public Audit Committee - with him later.