Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, a close aide to Pope Francis, will appear in a British court for a fraud case involving a £350m London property purchase by the Vatican. The London financier, Raffaele Mincione, was found guilty of embezzlement and sentenced to prison. The case involves wire-tapping authorised by the Pope and international legal disputes. Mincione is seeking a declaration that he acted properly and in good faith.
Key Points
Archbishop Parra and London financier Mincione involved in a £350m property fraud case
Mincione found guilty of embezzlement and sentenced to prison
Legal battle includes wire-tapping authorised by Pope Francis and international legal disputes
Pros
Increased transparency in Vatican dealings
Legal scrutiny over large financial transactions
Cons
Potential damage to the reputation of the Vatican and its officials