Former British Conservative minister Mr Neil Hamilton and his wife are beginning libel proceedings against the woman who accused them of sexual assault.
It is understood that a hearing in the High Court in London relates to an order freezing Ms Nadine Milroy-Sloan's assets up to the value of £400,000 sterling until a court has had the opportunity to decide whether libel damages should be paid to the couple.
Today's proceedings come the day after police announced there would be no further action against the couple who were accused by Miss Milroy-Sloan (28) of sexually assaulting her while another man allegedly raped her in a flat in Ilford, Essex, on May 5th.
Mrs Hamilton last night said she was "enormously relieved" by the decision. She said: "It's wonderful, wonderful news. This has been the worst nightmare of my life. It has been a scandalous waste of police time."'
Meanwhile, the Hamiltons' solicitor Mr Michael Coleman confirmed that he had reported a suspected offence of attempting to pervert the course of justice to police.
The report was made to the detective inspector in charge of the investigation into Miss Milroy-Sloan's allegations.
Miss Milroy-Sloan, who has waived her right to anonymity, was said to be "devastated" after being told of the police decision, but was standing by what she told police.
Detectives were continuing to investigate other aspects of Miss Milroy-Sloan's allegations. A man in his 60s remains on police bail.
Mr Hamilton said the couple's decision to fight to clear their names in the full glare of the media spotlight was vindicated.
PA