AN SNP MP who endorsed an online call for Alex Salmond to replace Nicola Sturgeon as party leader has said she is “shocked” by the criminal charges levelled against him.
Joanna Cherry declined to comment on her social media “like” from earlier this month, but said she was “very happy” to speak about a Brexit referendum.
Salmond, a former first minister who led the SNP for over 20 years, was last year investigated by the Government he used to lead over alleged misconduct.
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The probe led to a police referral, but Salmond successfully challenged the legality of the Government investigation via a judicial review.
His court victory triggered a bout of infighting between allies of Salmond and backers of Sturgeon, who succeeded him as First Minister.
Cherry, the SNP MP for Edinburgh South West who is considered a political ally of Salmond, then endorsed a tweet which supported Salmond.
The tweet she backed said: “Personally I would love to see @AlexSalmond back at the helm of the SNP and finally deliver us our independence.”
However, nearly two weeks after Cherry liked the tweet, which was reported in the Herald, Salmond was charged with two attempted rapes, nine sexual assaults, two indecent assaults and breach of the peace. He denies any criminality.
After being asked by this newspaper about the tweet after an anti-Brexit event yesterday, Cherry responded:
“I’ve got a statement about Alex and I will read it to you.”
It read: “Alex Salmond is my dear friend and like everyone else I am shocked by these charges. Alex denies any criminality and he is entitled to the presumption of innocence. I have confidence the Scottish legal system will deliver justice and I have no further comment to make.”
Asked if she regretted liking the tweet, she said: “I have no further comment to make. Thank you.”
She added: “Very happy to speak to you about the People’s Vote.”
Another post liked by Cherry before Salmond was charged said: “I miss Alex.”
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