Commons to debate Shields ruling

Michael Shields has always maintained his innocence

Justice Secretary Jack Straw's refusal to pardon jailed Liverpool fan Michael Shields is to be debated by MPs.

The 22-year-old is serving a 10-year sentence for the attempted murder of a barman in Bulgaria after his team's win in the Champions League final in 2005.

Last week Mr Straw announced a provisional decision not to pardon Shields, who maintains his innocence.

Liverpool Riverside MP Louise Ellman has secured an adjournment debate in the Commons on 16 July.

The Labour MP, a supporter of Shields, said she was working with his legal team to challenge Mr Straw's ruling.

Shields' campaign team have 28 days to make representations and challenge the decision on the basis of the evidence Mr Straw has already seen.