Smith welcomes cross party support for FAI campaign

27/3/08

Margaret Smith MSP has welcomed cross party support for her campaign to enable inquiries to be held into the deaths of Scottish military personnel killed abroad.

The Edinburgh West MSP’s amendment passed with unanimous support.

Commenting, Mrs Smith said:

"Although today can be seen as a significant parliamentary victory for our campaign, I am committed to continuing this fight until we can get a sensible outcome to this situation.

“Every bereaved family is worthy of our support, assistance and our respect, but particularly the families of those who have given their lives in the service of our country.  I have been campaigning for these families to be granted the right to have the circumstances of their loved ones’ deaths dealt with here in Scotland in a timely and reasonable manner.

“The Fatal Accidents and Sudden Death Inquiry Act does not cover deaths that have occurred overseas.  Over the past few months I have highlighted the unacceptable situation whereby grieving families have to cope with significant delays as well as long journeys to attend coroner’s inquests in the south of England where the bodies of their loved ones were repatriated.  

“I am delighted that this Parliament has sent such a clear message to both the Scottish and UK Governments that they should consider all options including a mandatory FAI.  They must act to ensure that inquiries into the deaths of soldiers who die abroad are undertaken on Scottish soil.”