A programme broadcast on BBC 2 tonight reminded us of the allegations that the process of extraordinary rendition has been facilitated through Scotland's airports. Coincidentally, there was a demonstration held at the Scottish Parliament today by the "Scotland Against Criminalising Communities" organisation against the process of extraordinary rendition.
For those who are unaware, the process of extraordinary rendition is whereby United States government agencies (most likely the Central Intelligence Agency) abduct individuals who they allege of involvement in activities they dislike and hold them against their will without recourse to due legal process and then fly them (bound and hooded and it is alleged, drugged) to countries where they will be detained and tortured. This is clearly outwith the terms of acceptable domestic or international legal practice and violates the UN Convention Against Torture.
The programme televised tonight often made for harrowing viewing. Some of the stories of individuals who allege they have been subjected to these practices were truly horrific. And whilst horrific they may have been, and whilst easier it may be to flick to another channel and close our eyes and ears to such happenings, I believe we must not.
I think all decent citizens of Scotland reasonably expect that when a crime has happened, those responsible should face the fullest extent of prosecution under law. That extraordinary rendition may have been facilitated through Scotland's airports indicates that a crime may have happened on Scottish soil. And I believe these to be crimes of the most serious nature.
To that end, I think it is wholly right and justified to seek a full inquiry into the allegations that have been made. I made clear to those demonstrating today that I will fully back such calls and I make that clear again on my blog.
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