UK Government Challenges Snoop Dogg Ruling

Snoop Dogg

The British government is today challenging a decision to allow rapper Snoop Dogg into its country.

The 36-year-old rapper was banned from entering Britain in March 2007 after he was involved in a brawl with police at Heathrow Airport.

The star had been expected to perform in front of over 65,000 fans  as part of the 'Heavyweights Of Hip-Hop tour', alongside P Diddy, however the tour was subsequently cancelled.

Last January Snoop - whose real name is Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr - successfully appealed against the ruling and was given entry clearance by an asylum immigration tribunal.

However, the UK Border Agency is today challenging the ruling. A spokesman said: "We were disappointed with the judge's decision in this case and have challenged his decision." A ruling on the case is not expected today.

Last year, Snoop was refused entry into Australia because of his extensive criminal record.  He was also last year sentenced to five years' probation and 800 hours of community service in the US after he pleaded no contest to gun and drug charges.