Scottish Government releases Salmond files

The Scottish Government has finally released documents relating to an ethics investigation into Nicola Sturgeon, following a long-running disclosure dispute.

Information Commissioner David Hamilton demanded ministers disclose internal communications and legal advice relating to the James Hamilton review into the former first minister.

That inquiry cleared Sturgeon of breaching standards rules over meetings and calls she had with her predecessor, Alex Salmond, after harassment accusations against him emerged.

The materials were initially requested under freedom of information laws by a member of the public, but ministers refused the request.

Hamilton instructed ministers to release the documents in November and criticised them for “wrongly withholding” the information.

He later threatened legal action after the January deadline to release the documents was missed.

Thousands of pages spanning 18 batches are now available via the Scottish Government website.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Extensive work has taken place to review these documents and ensure that as much information as possible can be placed in the public domain.

“The courts have made it clear that those who complained in relation to allegations of sexual assault must have their identities protected. The Scottish Government is not permitted to release information which would breach those court orders and amount to a contempt of court.”

Scottish Labour has described the release as a “win for transparency” but accused the government of overseeing a “culture of secrecy”.

Deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: “It is shameful that the SNP government had to be dragged to this point kicking and screaming.

“The truth is this debacle is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the rotten culture of secrecy and cover-up at the heart of this SNP government.”