Megrahi release was ‘right decision for the right reasons’

SCOTLAND’S JUSTICE Secretary has defended his decision to release the Lockerbie bomber almost three years ago as the only man convicted of the tragedy was buried in Libya yesterday.

Kenny Macaskill said he had made the “right decision for the right reasons” as he gave his reaction to the death of Abdelbaset alMegrahi.

Mr Macaskill, who was tasked with making the decision on Megrahi’s release, said: “I said at the time that it was a privilege to hold the position of justice secretary in the Scottish Government.

“You have to deal with what comes before you. I didn’t choose to address this matter but it was my obligation as the justice secretary to address it.

“I did so without fear or favour, I did so following the rules and laws that we have in Scotland.

“It was information given to me that was honest, open and transparent, and I stand by that decision.

“It was the right decision for the right reasons.”

Megrahi’s death has sparked renewed calls from campaigners for an independent inquiry into his conviction, with many raising doubts about his guilt and questioning if he acted alone in carrying out the atrocity.

The Justice for Megrahi campaign is seeking to have his conviction quashed and is supported by Jim Swire, whose daughter Flora was killed in the bombing, as well as Nobel Peace Prizewinner Desmond Tutu.

Prime Minister David Cameron said a new inquiry was unnecessary.

“I’ve always been clear he should never have been released from prison,” he said.

The Scottish Government said it would support an inquiry that had the appropriate jurisdiction.

Kenny Macaskill.