Lybia

Much has been happening in Lybia lately. Most of it, I haven't followed beyond the headlines and bylines. However one story has caught my eye and has made me think.

The story in question is one regarding the convicted Lockerbie bomber Abdelbasset Ali al-Megrahi.

His release from a Scottish prison was, in my opinion, a shocking miscarriage of justice and an embarrassment to the country I am usually proud to call myself a national of. In addition, it provided a major PR boost to a vile dictator.

The recent conflict in Lybia has led to much speculation as to his whereabouts; until the other day. Current reports suggest he is gravely ill in his compound in Tripoli, his medication having been stolen by looters. If reports are to be believed, this is a man close to death.

His family have apparently requested help from Britain.

The question is; how should we respond?

I don't think it is in any way possible to offer this help. Firstly, entirely objectively, how many people in Lybia are in a similar situation? Many I'm willing to bet. How can we therefore justify helping one individual without making a credible attempt to help many? This course of action seems grossly unfair to all those who are suffering throughout the country.

Secondly, al-Megrahi's past crimes cannot be ignored. He has committed a dreadful atrocity against the human race. His actions caused over a hundred to die in terror and agony and has inflicted endless suffering on those they have left behind. Many wish vengeance on such a person. I can't disagree with them although I don't think withholding medical treatment is the way to do it. This shows a lack of humanity that is not befitting of our great civilisation. However, to give assistance will make a mockery of our country. What sort of message would it send to the world if we rendered aid to someone who had attacked us in such a terrible way and then, when released on compassionate grounds, become a high profile mascot for the regime that mounted the attack. To capitulate to this request would be to actively humiliate ourselves.

I hope al-Megrahi doesn't suffer unduly over the coming days but it is not for us to intervene in his case beyond doing our best to bring peace and stability to the country as a whole.

JR