18 DECEMBER 1953, Page 15

SIR,—In common with many Scots, I was extremely interested in

the comments by Sir Compton Mackenzie on the recent trial of the four young men charged with conspiring to overthrow the constitution. 1 found myself in sympathy with much of what Sir Compton said, but, in the interests of accuracy, may I point out that he was wrong in saying that the judge could have imposed a sentence of penal servitude for life ? This form of punishment was abolished by the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act, 1949 (Section 16).— Yours faithfully,