Humza Yousaf has denied the SNP is being run in a "criminal way" after the party's treasurer was today arrested by Police Scotland.
The First Minister was speaking to reporters in the Scottish Parliament following the arrest of Colin Beattie MSP, who has served as the SNP national treasurer in two spells for more than 20 years.
Police Scotland launched an investigation in 2021 into SNP internal finances following several complaints from members of the public.
Beattie was arrested today and is currently being questioned by detectives.
Asked by the BBC if he could guarantee the party was not operating in a criminal way since be became leader, Yousaf said: "I certainly don't believe it is at all, no.
"As you know, I have instructed a review intro transparency and good governance. Of course, with the issue around financial oversight, I want some external input into that.
"There is change needed within how the party is operated and I have made that absolutely clear."
Yousaf said he believed people were "innocent until proven guilty" when asked if Beattie would retain the SNP whip.
Asked if Beattie would be removed from his position on Holyrood's Public Audit Comitttee, the First Minister said he would "consider that" but would have to speak to the MSP first.
"My understanding is he is still in the police station being questioned," Yousaf added.
"Clearly there are pertinent issues around his role on the Public Audit Committee and his role as national treasurer."
Asked if the arrest had derailed his statement to parliament, Yousaf said: "It's certainly not helpful.
"I will still articulate what my vision was as the new leader, and a fresh start for the government.
"And I hope we can move on to speak about those issues."
