The committee has also launched an inquiry into the Electoral Commission’s oversight of the funding and governance of  political parties in Scotland, and the policies, processes and safeguards associated with the distribution of Short Money to political parties.  

Patricia Ferguson MP, chair of the Scottish Affairs Committee, said: “The role of the lord advocate is unique, combining responsibilities as both the Scottish government’s chief legal adviser and the head of Scotland’s prosecution service. 

“The handling of Operation Branchform has once again brought to the fore the challenges this dual role can present. It’s right that the appropriateness of the lord advocate’s dual role is properly considered, and we’ll explore the of the advantages and disadvantages of the current arrangement, and possible options for reform.  

“Alongside this, we’ll open an inquiry examining the Electoral Commission’s oversight of the funding and governance of political parties in Scotland, and the policies, processes and safeguards associated with the distribution of Short Money. Transparency and accountability are fundamental to our democratic institutions, and we look forward to gathering evidence on whether our current systems are working effectively.” 

“We will undertake this work alone, following confirmation from relevant Holyrood committees that they do not wish to work jointly with us on these important issues, which interact with devolved competence.”