The shadow attorney general, David Wolfson, has formally stepped back from providing legal advice to Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch on matters concerning Ukraine and Russia. This recusal follows revelations that the senior King's Counsel is part of the legal team representing the sanctioned Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich.
Legal Conflict Over Frozen Assets
A spokesperson for Kemi Badenoch confirmed the move, stating it was "standard practice" to avoid any perceived conflict of interest. Lord Wolfson is involved in a court case attempting to recover billions in frozen assets owned by Abramovich in the Channel Islands, specifically Jersey. The spokesperson emphasised that because Jersey is a separate legal jurisdiction, this case does not affect the planned use of £2.5 billion from Abramovich's sale of Chelsea Football Club for Ukrainian reconstruction.
The official confirmed that this recusal would prevent Wolfson from advising on sensitive matters such as the potential future deployment of UK troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire. However, they noted this was not an immediate concern as no detailed plans exist. "He has recused himself from advising her on anything related to Ukraine because of this court case," the spokesperson said.
Labour's Criticism and Conservative Defence
The issue was thrust into the spotlight during Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer directly challenged Badenoch, asking how someone advising a figure "trying to escape sanctions" could credibly support UK sanctions policy.
In response, Badenoch's team defended Wolfson, noting he does not sit in the shadow cabinet and that his work constitutes representing a client in a specific case, not campaigning for a cause. They contrasted this with their previous criticism of the current Attorney General, Richard Hermer KC, and Keir Starmer himself for legal work they allege involved advocating for wider "causes." The spokesperson claimed there was "plenty of legal advice" available elsewhere in the shadow ministerial team.
Broader Implications and Political Fallout
This episode highlights the ongoing political scrutiny of the professional backgrounds of legal figures in both major parties. The Conservatives have frequently criticised opposition figures for their past legal work, while Labour sees Wolfson's position as creating an unacceptable conflict of interest.
The spokesperson for Badenoch expressed full confidence in Lord Wolfson's performance in his role, stating the Conservative leader was "delighted" with his work. They asserted that the recusal was a proactive and appropriate step to maintain integrity in shadow cabinet advice, particularly on matters of national security and international policy concerning Ukraine.
