Damages for Lockerbie detectives

(First Edition)

TWO SENIOR Special Branch detectives yesterday received libel damages over allegations that they were taken off the Lockerbie bombing inquiry team for 'idle and arrogant' behaviour.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Allen and Detective Inspector John Hague were 'dismayed, distressed and embarrassed' when they read the accusations in a book, the High Court was told.

The publishers Jonathan Cape and the author David Leppard apologised and agreed to withdraw copies of the book, On the Trail of Terror: The Inside Story of the Lockerbie Investigation.

The amount of damages paid was not disclosed.

The men were seconded to assist the investigation into the blowing up of a Pan-Am airliner in December 1988 their solicitor, Sarah Webb, said.

The man leading the inquiry later wrote to their superior expressing his gratitude and describing them as 'excellent ambassadors' for the Metropolitan Police.

The book did not name the officers but was plainly referring to them, Mrs Webb said.