Martha Stewart: Banned in Britain

Poor Martha Stewart.

The domestic diva had planned a trip abroad to meet with fashion contacts, but has had to alter her plans after British authorities decline to let her into the country.

Why? Not to protect Nigella Lawson's franchise. No, Britain said it will keep her out of the country because she is a convicted felon, the Daily Telegraph reports.

In 2004, Stewart served five months in prison after being convicted of obstructing justice during an investigation into whether she used inside information to trade stocks. She was never accused of doing so, but was indicted for lying during the probe.

"We continue to oppose the entry to the U.K. of individuals where we believe their presence in the United Kingdom is not conducive to the public good or where they have been found guilty of serious criminal offences abroad," a spokesman told the Telegraph.

Martha isn't moaning too much. "Martha loves England and hopes this can be resolved and that she will be able to visit soon," Stewart's spokeswoman said.

by John Clarke Jr.