Held Britons 'in affair probe'

The seven Britons held in Cuba, one more than originally thought, were private detectives hired by the wife of a wealthy businessman, it was reported today.

The seven Britons held in Cuba, one more than originally thought, were private detectives hired by the wife of a wealthy businessman, it was reported today.

They were investigating allegations of infidelity, said British Embassy officials. It is believed their methods may have been in breach of Cuban law.

An embassy spokesman said they had been assured that the Britons were in good health, have been given access to telephones and have been offered legal help.

The embassy in Havana was first notified of the detentions on 9 October in a phone call from the Cuban authorities, but was given no reason until yesterday.

Embassy officials have still not been able to meet the six men and one woman.