Mr Peter Foster, the conman at the centre of the scandal that caused massive embarrassment to the British Prime Minster Tony Blair and, particularly, his high-profile wife, Cherie, has dropped his legal battle against deportation, it emerged tonight.
Mr Foster's lawyers are said to have been concerned that any technicality could be exploited if he continued his fight.
Downing Street's credibility was damaged by revelations about his links with the Prime Minister's wife Cherie in what became known as "Cheriegate".
Number 10 initially denied he had helped Mrs Blair purchase two flats but was later forced to admit his role. It led to a series of damaging disclosures about her involvement with Mr Foster and his partner Ms Carole Caplin, Mrs Blair's lifestyle guru.
"He was advised that given the high profile of all surrounding him any legal technicality could be exploited," a friend said.
"That could include four or five weeks in custody until his appeal was heard."
The necessary papers are expected to be lodged in court next week.
Mr Foster is currently living in Ireland and is expected to split his time between here and Spain for the "foreseeable future".
More details of the episode may emerge in the autobiography Foster is currently penning.
"It is a time for reflection and as you know he is doing some writing," the friend said.
PA