Prince Harry Secures Landmark Victory in Privacy Case

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Prince Harry has achieved what his legal team is calling a "monumental victory" in his privacy invasion case against News Group Newspapers (NGN), the publisher of *The Sun*. The case, set to launch into a weeks-long trial, was settled on the opening day in a development described as extraordinary. This outcome has garnered attention not only for its implications but also for the strong statements it has inspired.  

"Their collective silence is deafening."

Prince Harry's barrister, David Sherborne, hails a 'monumental victory' as The Sun's owner issues a full apology for privacy breaches, declaring, "the time for accountability has arrived."https://t.co/j5lmtTZsw1

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Calls for Accountability

Following the settlement, Lord Watson, the former deputy leader of the Labour Party and a co-claimant in the case, spoke outside the court. He expressed his belief that Rupert Murdoch, the head of the media empire, should personally apologise to Prince Harry and King Charles. "If Rupert Murdoch had any decency, he should follow this corporate mission of guilt with a personal apology," said Watson. He also commended Prince Harry’s "bravery and astonishing courage" in taking on a media giant, stating that his efforts brought accountability to a realm of journalism that had long considered itself untouchable.  

 

David Sherborne, Prince Harry's lawyer, echoed these sentiments, calling for broader investigations into NGN’s "illegal actions and its blatant disregard for the law." He urged the police and Parliament to probe not only the unlawful practices but also the "perjury and cover-ups" associated with the case.  

 

Exposing the Truth

Sherborne revealed that NGN unlawfully employed over 100 private investigators on more than 35,000 occasions across 16 years. These actions were allegedly known to editors and executives, forming what Sherborne described as an "extensive conspiracy" to cover up the misconduct. He also noted that many individuals implicated in these activities remain in senior positions within News UK and other global media outlets.  

The lawyer praised the resilience of both Prince Harry and Lord Watson, stating that their persistence led to a "historic admission" from NGN, despite the company’s longstanding denials and resistance.  

 

A Milestone for Prince Harry

Prince Harry’s settlement with NGN includes "substantial damages," accompanied by an apology acknowledging the distress caused by the invasive actions of journalists and investigators. While NGN has admitted to unlawful practices associated with its now-defunct *News of the World*, it continues to deny allegations of phone hacking at *The Sun*. This point remains unresolved in the settlement, despite being a key aspect of Prince Harry’s case. 

 

Royal commentator Jennie Bond reflected on the significance of the outcome, describing it as a "huge victory" for the Duke of Sussex. "He wanted his day in court, but he’s got the apology he sought without the prolonged ordeal of a ten-week trial," Bond noted, adding that the resolution allows Prince Harry to move forward with his life.  

 

Wider Implications

This case was one of three legal battles Prince Harry has launched against British tabloids, accusing them of privacy violations. In a previous victory, the court ruled that phone hacking was "widespread and habitual" at the *Daily Mirror*. These cases highlight ongoing issues within certain corners of the press, raising questions about journalistic ethics and the protection of individuals' privacy.  

 

With this settlement, Prince Harry has not only secured a personal triumph but also shone a light on the systemic issues within the media. As his legal team and supporters have emphasized, this outcome serves as a reminder that no one is above the rule of law, regardless of power or influence.

 

Based on a report by Sky News 2025-01-23