The Conservative Party has been labelled "pathetic" by a government minister over its defence of a senior frontbencher who is acting as a lawyer for sanctioned Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich.
A 'Clear Conflict of Interest' Alleged
Justice Minister Jake Richards launched a fierce attack, stating that Shadow Attorney General David Wolfson's role in Abramovich's legal battle with the Jersey government presents a "clear conflict of interest". He argued that Lord Wolfson cannot impartially advise Tory leader Kemi Badenoch on UK policy towards Russia and Ukraine while being paid by Abramovich, whose assets are central to that very policy.
Mr Richards said Ms Badenoch's "desperate defence" of the situation, including a late-night response to his formal letter that he claims answered none of his questions, demonstrated "really weak" leadership. He insisted Lord Wolfson must choose between his shadow cabinet role and his client, stating: "He can act as Shadow Attorney General, but he cannot do both."
The Legal Battles and Frozen Funds
The row centres on two major legal issues involving the former Chelsea FC owner. Firstly, Lord Wolfson has been instructed in Abramovich's challenge against the Jersey government, which is investigating the source of more than £5.3 billion in assets linked to him held on the island.
Separately, the UK government is pursuing Abramovich for over £2.5 billion from the 2022 sale of Chelsea FC, intended to benefit Ukrainian war victims. These funds remain frozen in a UK bank account due to a standoff. Abramovich, sanctioned over alleged ties to Vladimir Putin, argues the transfer cannot proceed until the Jersey case concludes and has suggested the money aid "all victims of the war", potentially including Russians.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has issued an ultimatum to the oligarch, warning of legal action if he does not release the £2.5 billion.
Mounting Pressure and Hypocrisy Claims
The Ukraine Solidarity Campaign voiced alarm, questioning if the Conservatives were preparing for "business as usual" with Russia and normalising attitudes akin to Reform UK's. The group called for emergency legislation to stop sanctioned individuals "exploiting the UK legal system".
In his letter to Ms Badenoch, Mr Richards wrote that Lord Wolfson's "ability to advise you... is clearly compromised by the fact that he is being paid to act on behalf of Mr Abramovich." While acknowledging the "cab rank rule" for barristers, he stressed it "cannot remove conflicts of interest".
The Conservative Party hit back, branding Labour's attack "pure politics". A spokesman stated: "Lord Wolfson is instructed in on-going legal proceedings in Jersey. He is not instructed on the Chelsea FC matter." They accused Labour of hypocrisy, noting their own Attorney General had acted for controversial clients, and reaffirmed the Tories' commitment to Ukraine.
Mr Richards, however, questioned whether former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, whom he praised for his work on Ukraine, would find it acceptable for a senior Tory to be paid by Abramovich.
