Nicola Sturgeon has revealed she has not spoken to her estranged husband, Peter Murrell, since he was jailed for embezzling over £400,000 from the Scottish National Party. In a candid podcast interview, the former first minister described feeling like a "mug" for worrying about his wellbeing while he continued to lie to her.
Sturgeon's Shock at Murrell's Betrayal
Sturgeon told broadcaster Iain Dale that Murrell lied to her until the day he pleaded guilty in June. She discovered he was due to plead guilty only a week before the court appearance, and later learned he had been negotiating his plea for months. "That hit me like a tonne of bricks," she said.
The former first minister admitted she was still learning details of his purchases made with party funds even as he stood in court. "Over the years, he never really levelled with me," she stated.
Emotional Impact and Reflection
Sturgeon expressed deep regret over her past concern for Murrell's mental health during his isolation. "What a mug, why were you worried about him? He didn't worry about me," she said. She questioned his motivations, saying, "I don't think I will ever understand his motivations."
When asked about visiting him in prison, Sturgeon was unequivocal: "No. I'm not going to speak to him, I'm not going to visit him." This marks a definitive break from the man she lived with for decades.
Comparison of Sturgeon's Statements Before and After Sentencing
| Time Period | Sturgeon's Attitude | Key Quotes |
|---|---|---|
| Before sentencing | Worried about his wellbeing and mental health | "I was a bit worried about his wellbeing and his mental health." |
| After sentencing | Feels betrayed and cuts all contact | "What a mug, why were you worried about him?" |
Key Takeaways from Sturgeon's Revelation
- Sturgeon has not spoken to Murrell since his imprisonment.
- She discovered his plea deal only a week before court.
- She felt deceived by his ongoing lies until the guilty plea.
- She refuses to visit him or communicate further.
- The embezzlement involved over £400,000 of SNP funds.
FAQ: Sturgeon and Murrell Scandal
Why did Nicola Sturgeon stop speaking to Peter Murrell?
How much money did Peter Murrell embezzle?
Will Nicola Sturgeon visit Peter Murrell in prison?
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