John Swinney says the imprisonment of former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell over embezzlement of party funds has been “agony”. Swinney, who has described Murrell as a teenage friend before later employing him as chief executive, says the case is distressing and hurtful. Both outlets report that the comments come after Murrell is sentenced to five years in jail for embezzling SNP funds. The Scotsman also reports that Swinney indicates the SNP plans to pursue a compensation claim relating to the losses associated with Murrell’s actions. Together, the coverage portrays Swinney expressing personal and political concern following Murrell’s conviction and sentencing, while also pointing to potential legal and financial steps the party may take in response to the embezzlement. The reports do not add further details on the amount taken, the legal basis for any compensation claim, or the status of any related proceedings.