A BRITISH LOTTERY millionaire has been granted legal aid to fight a court case next week.

The Department for Constitutional Affairs today confirmed that Michael Carroll, who scooped a £9.7 million national lottery jackpot in 2002, will be able to dip into the public purse to fight a charge of affray.

He will stand trial at Norwich Crown Court on Monday.

"Michael Carroll is receiving criminal legal aid. However, in a crown court case, the judge can order a defendant who is found guilty to repay all their legal costs following an assessment,” a Legal Service Commission spokesman said.

The spokesman continued: "At the request of the Crown Court, the Legal Services Commission is carrying out a review of the financial circumstances of Michael Carroll. Once a review is complete, a report will be submitted to the Crown Court for their consideration.”

A means test for receiving legal aid in criminal cases is now before parliament, but is not expected to be passed until later this year.