Holliegate - What Happened To The Tapes ?

I would like to publicly thank those who travelled to Edinburgh to make representations to the delegates at the ironically named Children First event. I would also wish to express my appreciation to those of you who came to Liverpool on the same day to support Hollie`s case at the TUC evening, where I was unexpectedly allowed to give a short address to a packed audience that included actor Ricky Tomlinson and award-winning film director Ken Loach.

The courage and commitment of our dedicated and loyal supporters are greatly appreciated by Hollie, Anne and myself.

I would like to remind everyone that our next planned event takes place at the Shirehall, Shrewsbury at 11.00 hours on Saturday 19th February, followed by a march into the centre of the town. It must be emphasised that we are joining an event arranged by Unison, who have kindly allowed us to participate. Unison are protesting about public sector cuts in Shropshire and, while we have no particular view on this matter, it seems strange that, in the current economic climate, Shropshire Council are spending so much money and effort in what can only be described as a campaign of harassment against Anne and Hollie.

After my arrest for Breach of the Peace on February 12th 2010, a tape recorded interview was conducted by 2 Grampian Police officers: DS Drummond and DC Crowder. During the interview I made reference to a very serious crime which I believe had been committed and identified an individual whom I had strong reason to believe was responsible.

To the best of my knowledge, the police and Procurator Fiscal, have made no attempt whatsoever to investigate this allegation and have not questioned the person I named. Due to the bail conditions which were imposed on me recently, I am unable to comment further on this matter.

 When I eventually received written transcripts of the interview eight months later, I was shocked to discover that there was no reference whatsoever to the allegations I mentioned above. This is a very significant omission both in terms of my own defence and, much more seriously, in terms of an allegation of a very serious crime appearing to vanish without trace.  

 In late 2010 I asked both Stephen McGowan, Procurator Fiscal for Aberdeen at the time of my arrest, and his successor, Andrew Richardson,  for an explanation of why this allegation did not appear on the transcript. I have yet to receive any response.