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25/08/2009
Libya Should 'Compensate IRA Victims'
Families of victims of IRA terrorism have today renewed their calls for compensation from Libya following the release of the Lockerbie bomber.
Relatives want Libya, which supplied guns and explosives to the IRA during the troubles, to face up to its responsibility.
They are calling on Libyan leader, Colonel Gaddafi, to show the same compassion shown to the man convicted of the Lockerbie bombing.
Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed Al-Megrahhad served eight years of a life sentence imposed in 2001 after he was convicted at the Scottish Court in the Netherlands of the murder of 270 people at Lockerbie in December 1988.
The Scottish Justice Secretary made the decision to free Al-Megrahi on compassionate grounds after medical reports showed that he has terminal prostate cancer and perhaps three months left to live.
Megrahi returned home to jubilant scenes in the Libyan capital of Tripoli. He stepped off the plane to a hero's welcome as the crowd greeted him waving Libyan and Scottish flags.
The relatives believe the move will help their cause. Although his release has been strongly criticised by the US government. US President Barack Obama and FBI boss Robert Mueller have both hit out at Mr MacAskill's decision.
Colin Parry, whose 12-year-old son Tim was killed in the IRA attack in Warrington in 1993, has urged Prime Minister Gordon Brown to back their call for compensation.
Democratic Unionist MP Jeffrey Donaldson said the Libyan leader should show the same compassion as the Scottish government.
He hopes to travel to Libya with some of the relatives this autumn.
(GK/BMcC)
Relatives want Libya, which supplied guns and explosives to the IRA during the troubles, to face up to its responsibility.
They are calling on Libyan leader, Colonel Gaddafi, to show the same compassion shown to the man convicted of the Lockerbie bombing.
Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed Al-Megrahhad served eight years of a life sentence imposed in 2001 after he was convicted at the Scottish Court in the Netherlands of the murder of 270 people at Lockerbie in December 1988.
The Scottish Justice Secretary made the decision to free Al-Megrahi on compassionate grounds after medical reports showed that he has terminal prostate cancer and perhaps three months left to live.
Megrahi returned home to jubilant scenes in the Libyan capital of Tripoli. He stepped off the plane to a hero's welcome as the crowd greeted him waving Libyan and Scottish flags.
The relatives believe the move will help their cause. Although his release has been strongly criticised by the US government. US President Barack Obama and FBI boss Robert Mueller have both hit out at Mr MacAskill's decision.
Colin Parry, whose 12-year-old son Tim was killed in the IRA attack in Warrington in 1993, has urged Prime Minister Gordon Brown to back their call for compensation.
Democratic Unionist MP Jeffrey Donaldson said the Libyan leader should show the same compassion as the Scottish government.
He hopes to travel to Libya with some of the relatives this autumn.
(GK/BMcC)
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It has ben confirmed that the Libyan Charge d'Affaires has been called to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to be informed that he and the remaining Libyan diplomats in the UK are to be expelled. Commenting on the decision Foreign Secretary William Hague said: "What we are doing in Libya is necessary, legal and right.
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Libyan Bomber To Be Freed?
A decision is expected today on the proposed release of the Libyan man convicted of the Lockerbie bombing. It looks increasingly likely that Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi, who has terminal prostate cancer, will be freed on compassionate grounds next week.
Libyan Bomber To Be Freed?
A decision is expected today on the proposed release of the Libyan man convicted of the Lockerbie bombing. It looks increasingly likely that Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi, who has terminal prostate cancer, will be freed on compassionate grounds next week.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
