Tests have failed to prove a British man and woman had illegal sex on a Dubai beach, their lawyer said today.

Vince Acors, 34, and Michelle Palmer, 36, are accused of unmarried sex and public indecency on 5 July.

They appeared at Dubai's court of first instance today, where their case was adjourned until next Tuesday. But lawyer Hassan Matter insisted the pair would soon be proved innocent.

Outside court, Mr Matter said: "Medical reports for Michelle said that she didn't have sex. The DNA from Michelle said she didn't have sex. They were arrested at about 1am and they went for a medical report at about 8.30am.

"The medical examination of Vincent didn't give any sure findings."

Mr Matter also claimed witness statements, including one from a police officer, were "wrong". Ms Palmer is a publishing executive from Oakham, Rutland, and has lived in Dubai for more than two years. Mr Acors, from Bromley, was in the emirate as a tourist.

The couple met before the alleged crime at a "bubbly brunch" at Le Meridien Hotel, where guests pay about £60 to enjoy all-youcandrink champagne and food.

They could face up to six years in prison if convicted. Mr Matter said both were "very worried" about the possible outcome. When asked if Ms Palmer wanted to return home, he said: "She likes Dubai."

He added: "Vincent ... wants to go home, but he can't go because his passport is at the police station."

With its tax-free lifestyle and year-round sunshine, Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, now has tens of thousands of British expatriates. Many more go on holiday there each year.

Between April 2006 and March last year, 230 UK passport holders were arrested in the UAE, according to the Foreign Office.

Most were held over drugs, driving and alcohol use offences. But public displays of affection, sex outside marriage, swearing and making rude gestures are arrestable offences, and importation of pork products is forbidden. Homosexuality and cross-dressing are also banned.

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