Case was politically motivated – Carmichael
In a statement this morning he described the case as “politically motivated.”
He said: “I am pleased with the decision of the court.
“Although I was always confident of winning the last few months have been a difficult and stressful time for me and my family.
“We have been enormously grateful for the tremendous levels of support received from local people, in both Orkney and Shetland, regardless of which political party they normally support.
“This support has sustained us and we are very thankful for it.
“I should also like to thank my legal team, especially Rosie Walker and her colleagues at Gilson Gray who have been professional and caring throughout.
“This case was politically motivated. It was a deliberate attempt by nationalists to remove the last Scottish Liberal voice at Westminster, and is a mark of the unhealthy polarisation of Scottish politics since the referendum.”
He went on to say: “I shall continue to represent Orkney and Shetland as a Member of Parliament to the best of my ability, as I have done for the past 14 years.
“These are very special communities, and it is where my wife and I have made our home and where we are bringing up our family. The interests of the Northern Isles have always been, and always will be my first priority. It remains an honour and a privilege to be their Member of Parliament.”
Leader of the Liberal Democrats Tim Farron said: “This was the right outcome and Alistair’s focus will remain on delivering for the people of Orkney and Shetland in Parliament.
“Since the election, despite the distraction of the case, Alistair has continued to be an incredibly strong voice for Orkney and Shetland.
“He has done a huge amount for the Northern Isles over his time in Parliament and will continue to work to the best of his abilities.”
Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, Willie Rennie said: “The Scottish judicial system has vindicated Alistair’s election as MP for Orkney and Shetland. In the face of this politically motivated and often ugly legal campaign it has been a difficult time for Alistair, his family and his friends. But it is now over.
“His top priority now, as it always has been, is doing what he does best; standing up for the people of Orkney and Shetland and being a strong Scottish liberal voice in Parliament.”