Delay for UK 'sex on beach' trial

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/world/middle_east/7605754.stm

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The trial of two Britons accused of having sex on a beach in Dubai has been put back to next month.

Michelle Palmer, 36, of Oakham, Rutland, and Vince Acors, 34, of Bromley, south-east London, were arrested on 5 July.

The pair deny charges of public indecency and having unmarried sex but admit consuming alcohol.

Their case, which was due to be heard by the Court of First Instance, was adjourned until 7 October.

Hassan Matter, who is representing the pair, said Miss Palmer had not attended the hearing because she was "not well" but did not go into further details.

If found guilty, Mr Acors and Miss Palmer could face up to six years in prison.

However, prosecutors say a sentence of between six months and a year, together with a fine and deportation, would be more likely.