Three sent to UK special clinic after spy poisoning

LONDON, Nov 27 (Reuters) Three people have been referred to a special clinic for radiological tests following the death of a former Russian spy in London, a spokeswoman for Britain's Health Protection Agency (HPA) said today.

Highly radioactive Polonium 210 was found in the body of Alexander Litvinenko, who died last week, and traces of radiation were found at his home, a restaurant and hotel he had visited.

Health officials have offered tests to members of the public who may have visited the locations. The spokeswoman said that of more than 450 people who called a government hotline for health advice, 18 had been passed on to the HPA for follow-up.

''Of those 18, three have been referred as a precaution to a special clinic for radiological assessment,'' she said.

REUTERS PB VV1845