Becker’s status as diplomat questioned by minister
BORIS BECKER’S creditors have been granted more time to pursue his assets, as government officials from the Central African Republic (CAR) issued conflicting statements about the former Wimbledon champion’s diplomatic status.
Becker is claiming diplomatic immunity in his ongoing bankruptcy proceedings, as the country’s sporting, cultural and humanitarian attaché to the European Union.
Charles Armel Doubane, the CAR foreign minister, told a newspaper that his signature was required in order for a diplomat to be appointed and “I never signed such documents”.
However, he was contradicted by the
‘The embassy sees no reason to comment on [his] private insolvency. It does not affect his sincere efforts...’
CAR embassy in Brussels, which said Becker is one of its diplomats and had an office there. “The embassy sees no reason to comment on Mr Becker’s private insolvency. It does not affect the sincere efforts of Mr Boris Becker for our country,” the statement said, adding that Becker’s rights were covered by the Vienna Convention. “England has proved repeatedly that it adheres to diplomatic practices in exemplary fashion, respecting all diplomats and their rights. This will not be any different in the case of diplomat Becker.”
At a High Court hearing yesterday, Judge Sebastian Prentis said that he had seen a letter from the CAR stating that Becker has been issued with a diplomatic passport that expires in 2023.
Becker was declared bankrupt a year ago and the bankruptcy was due to be discharged today. Both parties agreed that the discharge should be suspended. Lawyers acting for the bankruptcy trustees claimed that Becker had not provided “full and accurate” information about his assets, naming two properties in Germany, a property in west London, an interest in three Mercedes dealerships and various tennis trophies and memorabilia.
Ben Emmerson QC, Becker’s barrister, said his client may wish to apply for an injunction to block a sale of his trophies, which was due to be held at the end of July.