Stay urged in fraud trial

A 49-YEAR-OLD man extradited from New Zealand to the territory more than two years ago to face a fraud charge will apply for a stay of proceedings next month.

Appearing before Judge Britton in chambers yesterday was Robert Flickinger, ex-director of a currency broking firm, who is charged in connection with a $5 million fraud.

Counsel Mr Robert Buchanan submitted that the case was estimated to have cost taxpayers more than $20 million for the extradition hearing in New Zealand, the committal proceedings in the magistrates' court and the High Court proceedings in Hongkong.

He said the trial, which was expected to last a year in the District Court, is estimated to cost at least another $12 million from public funds.

Judge Britton is expected to hear an application by Mr Buchanan on May 3 for a stay on the grounds of abuse of process as well as the Bill of Rights.

The defendant had earlier indicated a plea of not guilty to conspiracy to defraud.