A BUSINESSMAN has appeared in court accused of trading with Saddam Hussein's Iraqi regime.

Mark Jessop, 52, of Bury Road, Chingford, who owns JJ Bureau Ltd, of Station Road, Chingford, is accused of breaking a United Nations embargo and has appeared at City of London Magistrates Court.

Mr Jessop is charged with making funds available to the Iraqi government between 2000 and 2003.

Speaking from his Chingford home, Mr Jessop said: "I cannot comment on the case except to say that we will be defending this vigorously."

Mr Jessop has been bailed until January 12, when he will enter a plea at Southwark Crown Court.

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