Die Burger reported that Michael Kopelman and Nigel Eastman formed the Forensic Psychiatry Chamber LLP on July 1, 2011, just days before they issued a joint statement on Dewani's health.

Kopelman was representing the South African government while Eastman was acting on behalf of 32-year-old Dewani.

In the statement, they both agreed that Dewani was suffering from serious depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

They also agreed Dewani was at risk of committing suicide and that he could not plead because he was unable to follow proceedings or give instructions to his lawyers.

Dewani stands accused of plotting his wife Anni's murder in Cape Town in November 2010.

The British prosecution authority's July Seddon told the newspaper they had not been aware of the possible conflict of interest but would definitely investigate.

Eastman said he could not comment on anything to do with the case.

"The trial is still going on and I refuse to say anything," he said.

The British Press Association reported that the hearing would resume on September 18, when further medical evidence on Dewani's condition would be given.