British computer hacker set for US extradition

LONDON, May 10 (Reuters) A British computer expert accused by Washington of the world's ''biggest military hack of all time'' can be extradited to the United States, a court ruled today.

Gary McKinnon, 40, was arrested last June following charges by US prosecutors that he illegally accessed 97 government computers -- including Pentagon, US army, navy and NASA systems -- causing 0,000 worth of damage.

McKinnon, whose hacking name was ''Solo,'' had admitted gaining access to US government computers but denied causing any damage. His case will now be passed to the Home Secretary who will make the final decision on extradition.

REUTERS SY KN1546