Operation Branchform

PRESS RELEASE – 20TH March 2025

I am absolutely delighted that the police investigation which involved myself is now officially over and I have been completely cleared of all suspicion. It’s nearly two years since I was arrested and released without charge.
The time since then has been very hard for myself and my wife and being able to live a normal life again, without almost daily press reminders and speculation about the investigation will be strange for a while. While there was no question in my mind that I had done nothing wrong the fact is that it created a question among those who do not know me.
There is still an ongoing case – which does not involve myself – so I need to be circumspect in my references to this.
I would like to thank the very many people who gave me, and my wife, their support and encouragement through the sometimes difficult times, including my constituents who stood by me and put their trust in me as their MSP.
Now, I intend to share a glass of something with my wife tonight, and tomorrow I can focus on the future as I put myself forward for consideration as the SNP candidate for the Midlothian North County Constituency.
 
Colin Beattie MSP