Woman uses free legal advice to fight deportation

A Russian woman who is has been accused of being a spy will now be allowed to use free legal help to fight against being deported from the UK.

The Evening Standard reported that Katia Zatuliveter is appealing a decision by the home secretary to remove her from the country. The news source suggested that Ms Zatuliveter's case could end up costing tens of thousands of pounds.

Ms Zatuliveter, who was formerly an aide for MP Mike Hancock, was arrested last year on suspicion of spying for Russian intelligence, although she denies being involved in these activities. She wrote in a statement that the government was guilty of discriminating against her because of her gender, age and nationality.

In addition, the importance of free legal services to many was shown last month when demonstrators took to the streets to protest against the government's cuts to these services. Justice For All and its supporters met in London along with members of legal and advice agencies, trade unions, politicians and charities.

Posted by Hannah Carr