Craig Whyte trial: Former Rangers owner Sir David Murray '˜spent nothing' on checks

Former Rangers owner Sir David Murray's team spent 'nothing' on checks on Craig Whyte prior to his takeover of the club, a court has heard.

Former Rangers owner Sir David Murray. Picture: SNS/Alan Harvey

Sir David’s lawyer said “comfort” was taken in Whyte having “reputable” advisers. But, Whyte’s QC claimed the Murray side wanted a sale for “the right reasons or not”.
The evidence was heard at Whyte’s trial at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday.
The 46 year-old denies a charge of fraud and a second allegation under the Companies Act in connection with his takeover at Ibrox.

Solicitor David Horne – a key adviser to Sir David – was giving evidence for a second day.
The jury has heard how Whyte struck a £1 deal buy Sir David’s controlling stake at Ibrox in May 2011.
Prosecutors claim Whyte helped fund the takeover with a loan from the firm Ticketus against three years season tickets.

Mr Findlay then claimed a “whole range of people” knew about any Ticketus involvement.
Mr Horne earlier told how he only learned of their role after the deal.
The QC said if the Murray team wanted to know “where the money came from” they could have carried out the due diligence.
He also claimed that all Murray eventually wanted to do was sell Rangers to Whyte adding “it is as simple as that”.
Prosecutor Alex Prentice QC later went on to ask Mr Horne: “On the face of it, was Murray keen to complete the deal?”
The witness: “Yes.”
Mr Prentice: “Would he have sold no matter what?”

Mr Horne: “No.”
The trial, before Judge Lady Stacey, continues on Tuesday.