Colin Beattie arrested as part of investigation into SNP funding and finances

SNP treasurer Colin Beattie has been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

The 71-year-old is in custody and is being questioned by Police Scotland detectives.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, who also serves as an MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, is the second in relation to the investigation into how more than £600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used.

Who is Colin Beattie - MSP and National Treasurer for the SNP

A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service – with police unable to comment further due to the arrest being part of an ongoing investigation.

The matter is active for the purposes of the Contempt of Court Act 1981 and the public have been advised to exercise caution if discussing it on social media.

The arrest is part of a police investigation, which has been running for more than 18 months, sparked by complaints over the alleged misuse of funds earmarked for a second referendum campaign.

Earlier this month, Peter Murrell, the SNP's former chief executive and Nicola Sturgeon's husband, was arrested and questioned for 11 hours before being released without charge.