Sheraton Park Lane hotel examined in connection with Russian spy poisoning investigation

London's Sheraton Park Lane hotel has undergone a precautionary inspection as part of the investigation into the poisoning of former Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko.

Owner Starwood confirmed that Police and the Health Protection Agency (HPA) had looked at a small area of the hotel in connection with a guest that had resided there.

However, there is thought to be no risk to staff or guests and the hotel remains open and functioning as normal.

A spokeswoman for Starwood said: "As this is a police investigation we are under their direction, but please be assured that we are doing all we can to assist them in their enquiries. The well being of our guests and associates continues to be our prime focus."

So far the Itsu sushi restaurant in Piccadilly and the main restaurant of the Millennium Hotel, Grosvenor Square, in central London, have featured in the ongoing investigation into the former spy's death.

Litvinenko succumbed to radioactive polonium-210 poisoning last week at a central London hospital. An outspoken critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin, the identity of his killer or killers and their motivation is not yet known.

Health experts have said the chances of any members of the public that came into contact with the former spy being contaminated by the radioactive substance that killed him remain remote.

By Chris Druce

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