THE news that Harry Roberts is to be freed after a life sentence for the murder of two police officers is shocking and just goes to show that Home Secretary Theresa May and this Government give scant regard to the police service ("Fury over decision to free police killer", The Herald October 24).

The release of police killers is not new to Scotland and I am sure that your readers would be appalled to know that there are a number walking the streets of Scotland.

The following officers were murdered in cold blood while in the execution of their duties: Edward Barnett and Angus McKenzie, Allison Street, Glasgow; George Taylor, Carstairs; Ross Hunt, Larkhall; Louis Fulton, Gorbals.

All the individuals are now free to build a new life, but what about the friends and families of the officers who have to live with their memories of their dead loved ones?

The murder of a police officer is an assault on the society which they serve with dedication.

As we do not have capital punishment, life for any person who strikes against any official working for the good of society should mean life.

Ian Palmer,

8 Fultons Crescent,

Fenwick.