SNP candidate’s alleged benefits fraud shows system ‘open to abuse’

The investigation of a former SNP candidate for benefits fraud is proof of a “light-touch system” which is “open to abuse”, Russell Findlay has claimed.

During FMQs, the Scottish Tory leader raised the case of Sally Donald, who was forced to end her Holyrood campaign on Wednesday after reports she was being investigated by Social Security Scotland.

First Minister John Swinney said he was unaware of the investigation into his candidate until the government was approached for comment by a newspaper.

But on the wider point about the benefits system, he argued anti-fraud measures were “robust” – demonstrated by the fact an investigation was ongoing.

Donald, who denies any wrongdoing, is being investigated over alleged irregularities in claims for Adult Disability Payment.

She had previously joked about the SNP’s “gravy bus” in a 2022 social media post.

The benefit is designed to support disabled people with the extra costs they face due to their disability.

Donald is a well-known figure in the party and currently works for SNP MP Graham Leadbitter, and has spoken about having autism and severe anxiety.

In a statement yesterday, she said: “While I strenuously deny any and all wrongdoing, I do not want recent reporting to distract any further from the excellent campaign being run in Edinburgh Southern.”

In the chamber for FMQs, Findlay said: “This case illustrates so much that is wrong with the SNP’s benefits system… I’ve repeatedly challenged John Swinney over the SNP’s deliberate light-touch benefits system being wide open to abuse but he is in denial.”

He went on to highlight just 29 cases of benefits fraud have been passed to the Crown Office and there have been only three convictions since 2022.

“The SNP has effectively decriminalised benefits fraud in Scotland,” Findlay said.

“The party of gravy bus grifters and campervan capers. They've built a benefits system that shouts 'free money here'. It is a charter for chancers,” he added.

Swinney replied: “The system is working because investigations take place where they are required and there is a robust assessment process in place.”

He accused the Tories of seeking to “take benefits away from the vulnerable people”, going on to attack the Conservatives’ proposal to introduce a two-child cap on the Scottish Child Payment.