Ex-lawyer denies UK fraud charges over Iraq war claims

A former UK human rights lawyer on Monday denied fraud charges connected to claims of human rights abuses made against British soldiers in the Iraq war.

Phil Shiner, 65, appeared before a court in central London and pleaded not guilty to three charges in relation to the claims.

He was struck off by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in 2017 for pursuing false claims of torture and murder by British troops.

Shiner, from Birmingham, central England, spoke only to confirm his name, age and address, and to say "not guilty, sir" as the charges were read to him.

He was released on bail until another hearing on July 27.

British troops involved in the conflict faced accusations on their return, including of rape, torture and mock executions.

Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said in October that investigation had closed without a single prosecution being brought.