The mace in the Scottish Parliament is
inscribed with the four words 'Wisdom, Justice, Compassion, Integrity'. Sadly
none of these most worthy aspirations has been conspicuous in the Scottish
Government's inaction over the Lockerbie problem.
Where is the wisdom in simply refusing
to acknowledge the body of evidence suggesting the Megrahi conviction may have
been unsafe? How is justice for the victims served by failing to pursue the
truth? Where is the compassion for the bereaved relatives? And if there is fear
of reputational damage to the Scottish justice system, would it not show more
integrity to have the courage to face this possibility honestly and then, if
necessary, put it right?
Arguably, Lockerbie is the litmus test
of whether this government has the character the Scottish people aspire to in
the four words on the mace. With the world watching, it may also be the test
that determines whether Scotland has the confidence to stand proud as an
independent nation.
[Beautifully said, Sir
or Madam!]
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