A Conservative frontbencher is facing criticism for serving as legal counsel to Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich. The Ukraine Solidarity Campaign (USC) has raised concerns about Shadow Attorney General Lord David Wolfson’s involvement. The UK government is seeking over £2.5 billion from Abramovich, with the intention of aiding Ukraine.
Abramovich is currently entangled in a legal dispute with the Jersey government regarding the origins of more than £5.3 billion in assets linked to him held there. Recently, Keir Starmer issued a warning to Abramovich, threatening legal action if he does not transfer the proceeds from the Chelsea sale.
Lord Wolfson has been engaged in the Jersey case on behalf of Abramovich. It is reported that Abramovich contends that asset transfers to benefit Ukraine should wait until the Jersey proceedings conclude.
The USC has expressed skepticism regarding a Shadow Cabinet member’s involvement in such a case without party leadership awareness or approval. They question if this signifies a potential return to normal relations with Russia by the Conservatives.
The USC has urged the government to enact emergency measures to prevent sanctioned individuals from using the UK legal system to delay accountability. They emphasize prioritizing the rights of victims of Russian aggression over the privileges of oligarchs.
Abramovich sold Chelsea FC in 2022 after facing UK sanctions due to alleged ties to Vladimir Putin following the Ukrainian invasion. Funds from the sale meant for humanitarian purposes linked to the war are currently frozen in a UK bank account due to disagreements between Abramovich’s legal team and the government.
Labour Justice Minister Jake Richards penned a letter to Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, highlighting Lord Wolfson’s potential conflict of interest due to his representation of Abramovich. Richards called for clarity on the Opposition’s stance regarding the transfer of funds to aid Ukraine.
The Tories have defended Lord Wolfson, stating he is not involved in the Chelsea FC matter and dismissing Labour’s criticism as political tactics. They emphasized that barristers represent clients, not causes, and accused Labour of hypocrisy for their own legal representations in controversial cases. The Conservative Party reiterated its support for Ukraine and denounced any insinuation otherwise as Labour’s attempt to discredit them.