A Conservative frontbencher is facing criticism for representing Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich as his lawyer. The Ukraine Solidarity Campaign has expressed concern over Shadow Attorney General Lord David Wolfson’s involvement. The UK government is seeking over £2.5 billion from Abramovich to aid Ukraine.
Abramovich is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with the Jersey government regarding the origin of assets totaling more than £5.3 billion held there. Recently, Keir Starmer issued a warning to Abramovich, threatening legal action if he fails to transfer the proceeds from the Chelsea sale.
Lord Wolfson is advising on the Jersey case, with Abramovich contending that asset transfer for Ukraine should wait until the Jersey proceedings conclude. The USC raised doubts about a Shadow Cabinet member accepting such a case without party leadership knowledge.
The group urged emergency legislation to prevent sanctioned individuals from exploiting the UK legal system to delay accountability. They emphasized prioritizing the rights of victims over oligarchs’ privileges amid the frozen funds intended for humanitarian causes related to the Ukraine conflict.
In a letter to Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, Labour Justice Minister Jake Richards highlighted concerns about potential conflicts of interest due to Lord Wolfson representing Abramovich. The Tories defended Lord Wolfson, clarifying that his involvement is unrelated to Chelsea FC matters and dismissing Labour’s criticisms as politically motivated.
The Conservative Party reaffirmed its support for Ukraine and criticized Labour for what they deemed as hypocrisy and mudslinging. They emphasized their commitment to the Ukrainian cause and dismissed any insinuations of wavering support.