Kenyans win right to sue firm in Scotland

Hundreds of Kenyan farm workers have won the right to take legal action in a Scottish court against one of the world's biggest tea producers.

The workers are current and former employees of Finlays, a multi-national company which was founded in Scotland in the 18th century.

They claim conditions on Finlays' tea farms in Kenya damaged their health and are suing for damages in the Court of Session in Edinburgh. Finlays opposes the action.

In a previous hearing, the firm argued the action does not meet the requirements of Scotland's rules on group litigation proceedings.

But in a virtual hearing, judge Lord Weir said: "In principle and subject to clarification on the matter of a representative party, I am satisfied that the criteria for granting that application are met."

Another hearing will be held next month.