Prince Harry has reached a settlement in his lawsuit against News Group Newspapers (NGN), closing a legal battle that began in 2019. The prince had accused NGN of hiring private detectives to illegally gather information about him, claiming that senior executives at The Sun were aware of such practices and chose to cover them up. This lawsuit, which centered around alleged privacy intrusions spanning from 1996 to 2011, concluded with NGN issuing a formal apology and agreeing to pay a "substantial" amount in damages to Harry.
The settlement was announced just a day after the trial commenced in London's High Court. Notably, Prince Harry was absent on the trial's opening day. His legal team requested an hour's adjournment, which was followed by further delay requests from both parties involved, leading to the settlement. Had the trial proceeded, Harry was anticipated to testify in person come February.
The lawsuit emerged from allegations of "phone hacking, surveillance and misuse of private information by journalists and private investigators instructed by them at the News of the World," as acknowledged by NGN. Despite initially refuting these allegations, NGN eventually conceded, offering a "full and unequivocal" apology and admission of wrongdoing.
"The goal is accountability. It's really that simple." – Harry
In a statement, NGN expressed regret over their actions, acknowledging the impact their coverage had on Harry and his family, especially during his younger years.
"NGN further apologises to the Duke for the impact on him of the extensive coverage and serious intrusion into his private life as well as the private life of Diana, Princess of Wales, his late mother, in particular during his younger years," – NGN
NGN's apology extended to acknowledging the distress caused by their actions.
"We acknowledge and apologise for the distress caused to the Duke, and the damage inflicted on relationships, friendships and family, and have agreed to pay him substantial damages," – NGN
David Sherborne, representing Prince Harry, emphasized the wider implications of the settlement as a step towards accountability within the media landscape.
"Today, the cover-ups are exposed. And today proves that no one stands above the law. The time for accountability has arrived. Thank you very much." – David Sherborne
In this legal battle, Prince Harry was joined by Tom Watson, a U.K. lawmaker. Their combined efforts highlighted systemic issues within certain media practices. Anthony Hudson KC remarked on the rare consensus reached between both parties in this litigation.
"Both parties are in complete agreement… The number of times the parties have been in agreement in this litigation are very few and far between," – Anthony Hudson KC
