‘Tank-chasing’ lawyers who made millions ‘abusing’ courts see legal aid deal torn up
Public Interest Lawyers have been slammed for pursuing false claims of Iraq war crimes against British Armed Forces
A LAW firm slammed as “tank chasers” for suing British troops saw its legal aid deal ripped up last night.
The move came as Defence Secretary Michael Fallon vowed a crackdown on those who “falsely impugn our Armed Forces”.
The Legal Aid Agency said it had pulled the plug on Public Interest Lawyers, who have raked in millions pursuing compensation claims by foreign litigants, because it had breached contract terms.
Mr Fallon said: “We’ve seen our legal system abused. Now we are seeing justice done.”
The firm was blasted after an inquiry found claims of war crimes in Iraq were false. The five-year probe cost taxpayers £31million.
Solicitor Phil Shiner, the firm’s boss, faces a misconduct tribunal and could be struck off.
Mr Fallon said: “Every day, our servicemen and women show bravery and dedication in difficult circumstances.
“They shouldn’t be subject to unfounded legal claims.”
Justice Secretary Liz Truss said: “Legal aid is designed to support some of the most vulnerable members of society, not to pursue spurious cases against our brave Armed Forces as they serve this country overseas.”