SNOOP DOGG - SNOOP DOGG'S BRITISH BAN LIFTED

Rapper SNOOP DOGG has moved a step closer to re-gaining entry to the U.K. after a second senior immigration judge backed his visa battle with authorities.
The star - real name Calvin Broadus Jr. - was prohibited from entering the country after he was involved in a brawl at Heathrow Airport in April 2006.
The ruling was overturned earlier this year (Jan08) by immigration judge Nehar Bird who found there was no evidence the star had been responsible for any public disorder.
Britain's Border Agency challenged the decision, but was overruled on Wednesday (23Apr08) when a senior immigration judge George Warr said he did not find that Judge Bird had overlooked evidence or made a material error of law.
Broadus' lawyer, Phillip Trott says he is pleased with the decision, but has deemed the court process a waste of time.
He says, "It has been an appalling waste of public money to pursue this man. It is outrageous that the government is trying to exclude someone who is an innocent figure and has frequently spoken against gang culture and youths carrying guns."
The Home Office has until 30 April (08) to decided whether to appeal. A spokeswoman said it would be inappropriate to comment before then.