Church of Scotland leaders said last night that the decision to release Megrahi had delivered an important message to the world about what it is to be Scottish.

Church of Scotland leaders said last night that the decision to release Megrahi had delivered an important message to the world about what it is to be Scottish.

The Reverend Ian Galloway, Convenor of the Church and Society Council of the Church of Scotland, said it was important for the "fullness of humanity" that we remained capable of showing mercy, even in the most difficult circumstances.

He said compassion was possible in the case of Megrahi, convicted of the murder of 270 people, because the sentence that had been imposed by society had been superseded by a death sentence.

The Catholic Church in Scotland has so far refrained from comment on Megrahi's release.

A spokesman for Most Rev Mario Conti, the Archbishop of Glasgow, said he was not taking a particular stance on the subject.

Mr Galloway said: "The Christian faith does not say that justice is inappropriate. However, in these circumstances, being released to die is not an escape from justice.

"Anyone who says that showing mercy is a soft option does not know what they are talking about, it is a tough thing to do.

"Most people would argue that compassion belongs to the victims of crime. However, the sentence that society had passed has been overtaken by a death sentence and that is when there is room for compassion, not only for this man but for his family."

Mr Galloway added: "It is not about whether he deserves compassion, it is about whether we have the capacity to give it and it is really important for the fullness of our humanity that we remain capable of showing mercy.

"This decision has sent a message to the world about what it is to be Scottish. I understand the deep anger and grief that still grips the souls of the victims' families and I respect their views.

"But to them I would say justice is not lost in acting in mercy."