Prince Harry and Elton John have lost their legal battle against the publisher of the Daily Mail, Associated Newspapers, over allegations of unlawful information gathering. London's High Court dismissed the claims, stating that the claimants failed to prove their allegations. The ruling followed an 11-week trial earlier this year.
Court Dismisses Allegations
The written judgment, published after the trial, noted that 'the claimants failed to prove their pleaded allegations... the claims are therefore dismissed.' Judge Matthew Nicklin's decision was welcomed by Associated Newspapers as an 'overwhelming victory' and a'magnificent vindication of the Daily Mail's journalism.'
Publisher's Response
Associated Newspapers stated that the court's dismissal of all 97 allegations made by the claimants showed that the judge had 'accepted the honesty of our journalists' evidence on how they sourced their stories.' The publisher described the allegations, which included claims of bugs being placed in people's cars and homes, as 'lurid' and 'preposterous' with no 'credible evidence' presented.
Prince Harry's Testimony
Prince Harry gave emotional testimony during the proceedings. Several high-profile figures, including John and actor Elizabeth Hurley, accused the tabloid publisher of invading their privacy. Harry's lawyers sought 'substantial' damages on behalf of their clients over articles dating from 1993 to 2018.
Ongoing Legal Battles
This was the third and final case brought by the Duke of Sussex in his legal battle with British tabloids, which has further strained his relations with the royal family. Harry, now living in California, has been involved in other legal disputes, including over his police protection in Britain following his departure from frontline royal duties.
Current Visit to the UK
Harry arrived in Britain on Monday for a five-day visit, primarily to mark the one-year countdown to next year's Invictus Games for wounded veterans, which he founded. His wife Meghan, son Archie, and daughter Lilibet did not accompany him on the London leg of the trip after the family was refused police protection.
