Fraud Squad: Last Exit to Liechtenstein (ITV 3 Jun 1969, with Michael Gambon)

In Last Exit to Liechtenstein Gamble has been after businessman Rex Lucien since his business went into voluntary liquidation 18 months previously. Gamble knows that Lucien has money hidden away and has swindled lots of people out of their savings.

Lucien is out on bail but he is desperate to get to Liechtenstein to move some of his money around. The case is in stasis somewhat whilst Gamble recuperates in hospital from some unspecified illness. Lucien’s colleague Harry Drew says he knows someone who could put Gamble out of action for good. Michael Gambon as baddie Rex Lucien

The hit is due to take place at the upcoming Policeman’s Ball. Lucian and Harry make sure they have tickets so they don’t miss out on the “action”.

There quite a few names worthy of mention appearing in this episode. Richard Carpenter, creator of classics such as Catweazle and Robin of Sherwood, was an actor for the first half of his career, his role here as Harry Drew was one of his last before moving into writing full time. Michael Gambon has the main role as the crooked Lucien and his wife is played by Angela Browne. Comedy favourite Eric Barker plays a magistrate and a young Sheila Gish as a girl at the policeman’s ball who takes a shine to Gamble but who in a nice twist is actually the one hired to kill Gamble.

production details
UK / ITV – ATV / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast Tuesday 3 June 1969 at 9.00pm

Writer: Robert Holmes / Production Design: Anthony Waller / Director: Paul Annett

Series: Fraud Squad Season 1 Episode 3

cast
Patrick O’Connell as Detective Inspector Gamble
Joanna Van Gyseghem as Detective Sergeant Vicky Hicks
Michael Gambon as Rex Lucien
Angela Browne as Diana Lucien
Jon Croft as Bancroft
Ralph Nossek as Superintendent Proud
Richard Carpenter as Harry Drew
Edward Evans as Bolam
Eric Barker as Magistrate
Peter Miles as Brice-Williams
Mischa De La Motte as Usher
John Comer as St Lister
Kenneth Keeling as Gurney
Sheila Gish as Leonie
Ellis Dale as Conjuror
Jane Cardew as Charlene