Letter: Bulger judgment
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Bulger judgment
Sir: Your editorial support (17 December) for the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights in the Bulger case could and should have been even stronger.
In virtually every dictatorship pressure is brought on the judiciary to do as they are told by those in power. Occasionally, brave judges refuse. Such courage was one of the rare redeeming features of apartheid South Africa.
When we in the West won the Cold War, the word was that now the rule of law would replace Stalinism. What an extraordinary state of affairs that a British politician should have the power to overrule a judicial sentence, in effect suspending the rule of law by decree.
That the Sovereign retains the prerogative of mercy is an ancient and honourable privilege. That the Home Secretary has the power to do the opposite is a grave abuse.
The Rev Dr PAUL OESTREICHER
Coventry
The writer was chairman of Amnesty International UK, 1975-79
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments