The family of murdered Surjit Singh Chokhar have said that the Crown Office now have a second chance "do the right thing but also to show there has been a positive change" in the period since the "institutional racism" that blighted the proceedings following Chokhar's murder in 1998.

The Firm can also reveal that Strathclyde Police commenced their re-investigation into the murder almost two weeks ago, ahead of the announcement yesterday that the case was to be looked at afresh.

"13 years ago as Surjit’s family began their struggle for justice, every step required their sacrifice and suffering. Surjit was described as Scotland’s Stephen Lawrence, so when two of Stephen’s killers finally faced justice because of the double jeopardy law, the Chhokar family dared to hope that that justice was still possible for Surjit," the family said in a statement.

They added that they beleived the Lord Advocate and Solicitor General have taken "important steps" by instructing a reinvestigation of the murder. but added that there were "significant hurdles to cross."

"The family believe there is a determination to fight for justice. The Lord Advocate has confirmed today that Strathclyde Police has been instructed to reopen the investigation into the murder of Surjit Singh Chhokar.

"Today is a second chance for the Crown Office to do the right thing but also to show there has been a positive change 13 years later.Surjit’s family will only ever be at peace when there is justice, it is now up to the Lord Advocate and Strathclyde Police to do all that is possible."