Poison attack ex-spy Skripal out of hospital

SERGEI SKRIPAL has been discharged from hospital after surviving an attempt on his life with a deadly nerve agent on March 4, it was revealed yesterday.

The ex-Russian spy, 66, and his daughter, Yulia, 33, were admitted to Salisbury district hospital after coming into contact with military-grade Novichok.

Scotland Yard said yesterday it would not discuss security for Mr Skripal and his daughter who was discharged last month.

It is not known whether her father has been taken to the same secure location.

It is believed both have a 24-hour armed guard.

Detective Sergeant Nick Bailey, who was also exposed, went home on March 22.

Nursing chief Lorna Wilkinson said treatment had been “a huge and unprecedented challenge”.

A spokesman said it had required “keeping them alive until their bodies could produce more enzymes to replace those poisoned”. The Skripals will be offered protection for life and get a new identity.

They may be given settled status abroad – though the Russian embassy claims this would amount to an abduction.

Last night, ambassador to the UK Alexander Yakovenko repeated demands for access and said: “This is our interpretation. You can call it detained, you can call it isolated, you can call it kidnap.” Decontamination in Salisbury and the investigation continue. Sergei Skripal – refuge