September 25, 2005

A leading Nationalist accused police yesterday of spying on the SNP to sabotage the campaign for independence.

South of Scotland MSP Christine Grahame demanded an investigation after discovering Special Branch officers at seven police forces could have secret files on the Nats. Ms Grahame cited the Freedom of Information Act to demand the forces own up if they hold information on the SNP.

She said: "It appears all but one of Scotland's Special Branch offices have files on the SNP."

Only Fife Constabulary said it had no files on the party. A Scottish Executive spokesman refused to comment on the claims and said they were "an operational matter for police