LAWYERS seeking to recoup cash from Natalie McGarry have removed her ex-councillor husband from their inquiries. 

The Crown had initially been looking into McGarry and former Glasgow Tory leader David Meikle’s spending over the last 12 years. 

McGarry is currently subjected to confiscation hearings at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

She was found guilty in May 2022 of taking £19,974 while treasurer of Women for Independence.

McGarry also embezzled a further £4,661 while treasurer, secretary and convener of the Glasgow Regional Association of the SNP.

McGarry had been the MP for Glasgow East between 2015 and 2017.

She was jailed for two years which was reduced on appeal. 

A previous hearing was told that Mr Meikle’s finances were being looked at as a result of close links between the pair. 

It had been stated that the Crown saw fit to get financial information in relation to him to identify transfers in both of their bank accounts.

Allan MacLeod, defending, told today’s confiscation hearing: “The Crown have agreed to take out any reference to Miss McGarry’s husband.

“I would say that there has never been any suspicion or suggestion that he has been involved in any crime whatsoever.”

A previous hearing was told that the Crown believed McGarry’s benefit was £195,241.31.

This has now been reduced to £110,000.

The defence dispute this and believe the benefit figure is £55,000.

A hearing will take place next month following further information from the Crown accountant.