SNP Membership Falls to Record Low Amid Financial Scrutiny

The Scottish National Party (SNP) has seen its membership decline sharply to 64,525, a drop of nearly 10,000 in the past year and almost halving from a peak of 125,000 in 2019. This decline follows a tumultuous period for the party, which has seen three leaders in three years and faces ongoing police investigations into its finances, including the embezzlement charges against former chief executive Peter Murrell. Despite recording a surplus of £661,568 in 2023, the party's financial health is questioned due to missing documentation for some income sources. The auditors expressed concerns about the completeness of the party's financial records, which may affect overall income assessment. The SNP maintains it is still the largest political party in Scotland, but these figures reflect significant challenges ahead as it grapples with internal strife and dwindling support. The ongoing fallout from leadership contests and financial scandals continues to impact the party's public perception and membership stability.