As a multidisciplinary group involved in examining events preceding and surrounding the May 2004 explosion in Maryhill, we are appalled that a paltry sum of £400,000 is the total penalty in this case. There has been no use of the powers of imprisonment for those who breach the criminal law on health and safety, causing multiple deaths. Is this the final insult to the dead, those maimed and those bereaved families who must live on?

As a multidisciplinary group involved in examining events preceding and surrounding the May 2004 explosion in Maryhill, we are appalled that a paltry sum of £400,000 is the total penalty in this case. There has been no use of the powers of imprisonment for those who breach the criminal law on health and safety, causing multiple deaths. Is this the final insult to the dead, those maimed and those bereaved families who must live on?

Following the conclusion of the trial, we are now in a position to publish our findings, which are mainly based on the testimony and experience of former Stockline employees.

Central to our conclusions is the need for a full public inquiry presided over by a senior Scottish judge. The remit must ensure close examination of all aspects of this disaster, including working conditions and employee relations within the group of companies which we cover in our report. The testimony indicates serious long-term health and safety problems at the company. Anyone who is in any doubt about the need for legislation on corporate killing that is specific to Scotland should reconsider in the wake of this trial. Examination of systematic failures and events preceding the disaster (highlighted in the report) indicate that "a light touch" regulatory strategy in this setting is inadequate to protect Scottish workers.

First Minister Alex Salmond has already signed a Westminster early-day motion calling for a full public inquiry. He must act now in the interests of justice, democracy and worker rights to establish that inquiry. A fatal accident inquiry will not suffice because its scope will be too limited.

Tommy Gorman, 11 Crosbie Street, Glasgow, and Professor Andrew Watterson, Professor Phil Taylor, Professor Christine Cooper, Dr David Whyte, Jim McCourt.