The SNP has found auditors to complete its publication of accounts for the party and Westminster group.

It was revealed that the previous auditors Johnston Carmichael quit last year and the party was unable to secure the services of new auditors to meet its statutory requirements.

Humza Yousaf, SNP leader said contracts are in place with AMS Accountants for both the SNP and the Westminster group.

Yousaf said: “I am pleased to confirm that we have secured the services of auditors to take forward our accounts.

“We take our statutory obligations extremely seriously, so it is welcome news that AMS Accountants Group will complete the accounts for both the party and the SNP Westminster group. 

 “There is hard work ahead, but it is really encouraging to have them on board as we work towards challenging deadlines.”

The party has until the end of this month to complete its accounts or risk losing £1.3m in public money from the House of Commons.

Stephen Flynn, Westminster Group leader said: “I'm pleased to confirm the SNP Westminster group now has auditors in place - and I'm confident we'll meet the deadline, as in previous years.”

A police investigation into the SNP finances is ongoing and former Chief Executive, Peter Murrell and former Treasurer, Colin Beatie MSP, have both been arrested and questioned before being released without charge.