After being cleared in the police investigation into the SNP’s finances, Nicola Sturgeon marked her debut at a comedy festival alongside crime author Val McDermid at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow. The duo’s performance, titled Books and Banter, was met with applause from the audience as Sturgeon briefly acknowledged the week’s events, expressing gratitude towards McDermid for her support over the years.
With the conclusion of Operation Branchform, the long-running investigation, Sturgeon’s appearance at the Glasgow Comedy Festival was announced back in November. Reflecting on the past years, Sturgeon mentioned the recent interesting developments and credited Val McDermid for being a source of strength during challenging times. Val McDermid reciprocated the sentiment, celebrating her friend’s newfound freedom.
During the event, Ashley Storrie, daughter of the late comedian Janey Godley, joined the duo to discuss her comedy routines and pay tribute to her mother. Janey Godley, who passed away from cancer, had formed a friendship with Sturgeon through comedic voice-over interpretations of the former First Minister’s Covid briefings. The Books and Banter show also featured crime writer Christopher Brookmyre, adding to the diverse lineup.
Following her arrest and subsequent release in June 2023, Sturgeon expressed relief at the conclusion of the investigation, stating that the cloud hanging over her had been a challenging experience. Emphasizing her innocence, Sturgeon reiterated that there had been no evidence of wrongdoing on her part. Despite her decision not to seek re-election in the upcoming Holyrood election, First Minister John Swinney expressed optimism about her continued involvement in campaigning for the SNP, citing her recent efforts in supporting a council by-election victory for her election agent, Mhairi Hunter
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