Orkney and Shetland MP and member of the House of Commons Scottish Affairs Committee Alistair Carmichael has today written to the committee Chairman, Mohammad Sarwar MP asking him to set up an investigation to look into the handling and consequences of the release of Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed al-Megrahi.

Commenting, Mr Carmichael said –

“I have today written to the Committee chair asking that we discuss this issue and the possibility of an inquiry as soon as the House returns on the 12th October. The release of Al-Megrahi is an issue which strikes at the very interface of government relations between London and Edinburgh. It is therefore most appropriate that the Scottish Affairs Select Committee should carry out this inquiry.Alistair Carmichael MP: Orkney & Shetland

“Throughout this whole process it has been the families of the victims of Lockerbie who have been worst served. As members of the Scottish Affairs Committee it is our job to ensure a good working relationship between the governments and it is therefore right we conduct an early inquiry. We should call as witnesses all those in Westminster who have played a part in this process. To my mind, this should include the Prime Minister and Justice Secretary who need to give a full account of their actions. The Prime Minister in particular has so far failed to do so.

“It is not acceptable that the families of those who were killed should be left feeling ever more isolated and alienated while politicians in London and Scotland continue to play pass the parcel.”