Megrahi death: I stand by my decision to free Megrahi, says Kenny MacAskill

KENNY MacAskill defended his decision to release the Lockerbie bomber almost three years ago, as the only man convicted of the atrocity was buried in Libya yesterday.

The justice secretary said he had made the “right decision for the right reasons” as he gave his reaction to the death of Abdelbaset al-Megrahi.

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, based upon the evidence provided. 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.”

Mr MacAskill said Lockerbie had “devastated lives around the world”.

“Our first thoughts are with the victims and their families,” he said. “This is a matter of great distress and great concern to them, and our thoughts once again go to them.”

Prime Minister David Cameron said a new inquiry was unnecessary.

He said: “I’ve always been clear he should never have been released.”

LYNSEY BEWS