By Cheryl Wood

FIFE POLICE have refused to investigate allegations of so-called “torture flights” landing at Leuchars.

Green MSP Mark Ruskell, who sought an inquiry into claims that CIA flights carrying terror suspects for interrogation abroad had refuelled at the RAF station, hit out at the decision. He also plans to seek information under the Freedom of Information Act from the Ministry of Defence.

Assistant Chief Constable Allan Burnett said Fife Constabulary had “no locus” in the arrangements for flights passing through Scots airspace or Scots airports and there was not enough evidence to investigate.

But Mr Ruskell said, “There is more than enough evidence for the police to investigate on the basis of ‘reasonable suspicion,’ so I am disappointed that Fife has followed other Scottish police forces and are refusing to follow up on the alleged role of Leuchars in the illegal kidnapping of people around the globe.”

The MSP had written to Fife Constabulary requesting an inquiry three weeks ago, but in his reply Mr Burnett said, “Nothing in the material you have sent provides an appropriate basis for me to commence any inquiry into the matter.”

He said any fresh evidence would be looked at.

Mr Ruskell added, “Fife Constabulary have told me they will look at the matter afresh if more information comes forward, so I appeal to people to come forward and talk to me if they have any information relating to RAF Leuchars and possible rendition flights.

“I am also lodging a Freedom of Information request with the Ministry of Defence, who as the public body that runs the airbase are captured by the FoI Act and are in a position to release information on flights, unlike the privately controlled Scottish airports.”

Fife police refused to comment further, only saying the matter had been looked at nationally and a decision had been made to take no further action.

It is alleged the Leuchars base has been used by CIA “rendition” flights for refuelling six times since 2001.