British MP calls for Abramovich's UK assets to be frozen or sold

Russia has officially declared war on Ukraine and in response to that, the British government is taking some steps to punish Russian oligarchs/billionaires who have assets in the United Kingdom.

Labour Member of Parliament Chris Bryant gave a speech in the House of Commons to sanction Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.

Here are the important parts of his speech: "I've got hold of a leaked document from 2019 from the Home Office, which says, in relation to Mr. Abramovich.

"As part of HMGs Russia strategy, aimed at targeting illicit finance and malign activity, Abramovich remains of interest to HMG due to his links to the Russian state and his public association with corrupt activity and practices.

"An example of this is Abramowich admitting in court proceedings that he paid for political influence.

"Therefore HMG is focused on ensuring individuals linked to illicit finance and malign activity are unable to base themselves in the UK and will use the relevant tools at its disposal including immigration powers to prevent this.

"That's nearly three years ago, and yet remarkably little has been done in relation. Surely Mr. Abramovich should no longer be able to own a football club in this country?

"Surely we should be looking at seizing some of his assets, including his 152 million pound home? And making sure that other people who've had tier one visas like this are not engaged in malign activity in the UK."

At the moment, no decision has been taken on what to do with Abramovich's assets. However, if the government does agree to go down Bryant's recommendation, there is a real chance that Chelsea's future could be up in the air.

Source: RhonddaBryant @ Twitter