EA/2023/0538 - [2024] UKFTT 001054 (GRC)

The Tribunal read and took account of an open bundle of evidence and pleadings, as well as a closed bundle. We also received and took account of written skeleton arguments from the Appellant and the SFO.

The open bundle included a witness statement on behalf of the SFO. The witness's statement was given in their capacity as Interim Chief Capability Officer at the SFO. It is not necessary for us to identify this witness personally in this decision - therefore we merely refer to them as “the witness” and we mean no disrespect to them in doing so.

The closed bundle contained the Withheld Information, as well as unredacted parts of the witness statement and one of its exhibits which had been redacted in the open bundle.

We heard oral submissions from Ms Al-Yassin on behalf of the Appellant and from Mr Shellum on behalf of the SFO. We also heard oral evidence from the witness.

All of the contents of the bundles and the skeleton arguments were read and considered, and all of the submissions from the parties were taken into account, even if not directly referred to in this decision.

During the hearing, the Tribunal held a closed session where the Withheld Information and other matters relating to the closed material were addressed. A gist of the closed session, suggested by Mr Shellum and approved by the Tribunal during it, was provided to Ms Al-Yassin at the resumed open hearing.