Former Labour MP Denis MacShane in court over expenses At a short ten minute hearing, Mr MacShane was told he must return to the Old Bailey on November 18 for a plea and case management hearing, with a five day trial expected to take place beginning on May 6 next year. Wearing a dark suit, white shirt and striped tie, Mr MacShane he spoke only to confirm his name and acknowledge that he understood what had been said during the hearing. The judge, Mr Justice Sweeney said: "I am going to continue your unconditional bail. The next occasion when you must be at court is on November 18 at this court. The law obliges me to underline that if you fail to attend court in due course the proceedings may continue, indeed your trial would be likely to continue in your absence.