Michelle Thomson: Criminal case against former SNP MP dropped

Prosecutors have dropped criminal proceedings against former MP Michelle Thomson because of a lack of evidence.

Ms Thomson, a former SNP MP, was reported to Scottish prosecutors last year following a police investigation into alleged mortgage fraud.

She has always denied wrongdoing.

A Crown Office spokesman said: "After careful consideration of the facts and circumstances of the case, Crown counsel concluded there was an absence of sufficient credible and reliable evidence and there should be no criminal proceedings at this time."

Ms Thomson said she had been "completely exonerated by the police investigation", and said she was "eternally grateful to my SNP colleagues in Westminster who supported me so strongly throughout this time".

"I thank my friends and supporters who gave me constant encouragement throughout and above all, I am indebted to my family and acknowledge that the past two years have been very difficult for them too.

"I made clear before I entered politics that I wished to use my skills, drive and experience to help shape a better Scotland, and that desire remains as strongly as it did when I became very involved in the 2014 independence referendum.

"However, for the time being this will need to take a different form. I now intend to take a few days of reflection to consider my next steps."

Ms Thomson was elected at the 2015 general election, but resigned the party whip when police launched the investigation.

She did not run in last month's General Election.