MSP QUESTIONS DUE PROCESS OF LOCKERBIE BOMBER'S RELEASE (Jim Hume)

MSP QUESTIONS DUE PROCESS OF LOCKERBIE BOMBER'S RELEASE

September 2, 2009 9:25 AM

Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, today spoke during the Scottish Parliamentary debate on the release of the Lockerbie bomber.

The MSP questioned the due process and the events leading up to Mr Al-Megrahi's controversial release on compassionate grounds.

Jim Hume MSP said:

"There is no doubt that the Lockerbie bombing was the most horrific terrorist incident to happen in Scotland, resulting in the loss of 270 lives. But we have to be clear that this debate is not about Megrahi's innocence, but about the events leading to the Minister's decision.

"This affair has raised several concerns regarding the due process followed by the Justice Secretary. My concerns, like others, extend to the matter of press being so well informed, not just about the visit, but also of the release date. Mr McAskill has clearly stated previously that he was acting in a quasi judicial manner, but never have I heard of a judge or jury meeting before a judicial decision with a convicted prisoner, and then briefing the press.

"And it's highly regrettable that the appeal process was halted, a process that could have answered many questions about of Mr Megrahi's guilt or innocence and the possibility of justice for the victims. Dropping the appeal could be seen as some sort of bargaining chip for his release.

"I therefore regret that the process of the whole incident has raised so many unanswered questions, and I remain to be convinced that all the options regarding Mr Al-Megrahi had been fully explored. If they had been, then we could be sure that as our Parliamentary mace states, wisdom, compassion for all, integrity and justice were applied."

ENDS