SNP’s finances have seen a significant boost from bequests, with millions donated since 2000, shaping the party’s future.
Edinburgh: Recently, SNP president Maureen Watt shared how bequests have really helped the party financially. She mentioned that these donations are a vital source of income.
Since 2000, the SNP has received around £4.8 million in donations, with a big chunk coming after the 2014 referendum. It’s impressive to see how much support has grown since 2019.
In fact, the party saw a nice boost in funding recently, with three donations over £200,000 in just the third quarter of 2024. The Electoral Commission’s new figures show a total of £682,220.07 in donations.
One notable donor was Estelle Brownrig, who left £203,921.21 to the SNP after she passed away in March 2018. She had also given £120,000 back in 2019.
Another donor, Alexander Adams, contributed £250,000, while Thomas McCann donated £228,298.86, both on August 19. It’s heartwarming to see such generosity.
Watt reminisced about the first major legacy she remembered, which came from Walter Paterson Neill. He left his farm to the party, and the sale helped buy the SNP’s headquarters in Edinburgh.
Neill also donated an island, Eilean Mor MacCormick, which is now managed by a trust. It’s amazing how these legacies continue to support the party.
Scotland’s first Makar, Edwin Morgan, also made a significant contribution, leaving £1.1 million to the SNP when he passed away in 2010. Watt highlighted how this was a powerful statement of support for Scotland’s future.
Other notable bequests include £250,000 from Dr. Norman Allan in 2019 and £91,996 from William Ritchie. Morven Polson from Edinburgh also left a generous £370,000 in 2021.
Watt also discussed how to make a “will for independence.” She emphasized that while family comes first, leaving a legacy to the SNP can be a meaningful way to support Scotland’s future.
She explained the difference between a pecuniary gift, which is a specific sum, and a residuary gift, which is the remainder of an estate after loved ones are taken care of. It’s good to know these options!
Watt reminded everyone that gifts to the SNP are exempt from Inheritance Tax, just like donations to charities. She encouraged members to let the party know about their intentions, which would help acknowledge their support.
