Husband of former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon steps down following significant membership losses.

Peter Murrell has resigned as chief executive of the Scottish National Party (SNP) with immediate effect on March 18, after serving in the role for over 20 years. His resignation follows a tumultuous period marked by disputes over the party’s membership numbers.

The SNP has seen a decline of 30,000 members within just over a year, raising concerns within the party. Tensions escalated when SNP media chief Murray Foote also stepped down on Friday, further complicating the situation.

Reports indicate that members of the SNP’s ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) were considering a vote of no confidence in Murrell, prompting his decision to resign.