Prince Harry Settles Phone Hacking Claims Against MGN
On February 9th, 2024, the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, reached a settlement in his phone hacking claims against Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN). According to sources, MGN will cover Prince Harry’s legal costs as well as pay approximately £300,000 in damages to him.
The settlement concludes a four-year legal battle between Prince Harry and the publisher, relating to claims of unlawful intrusion in 115 stories published between 1996 and 2010. In a statement outside the High Court, Prince Harry’s lawyer, David Sherborne, affirmed that their mission to seek justice continues.
The legal proceedings also saw criticism directed at former Daily Mirror editor Piers Morgan, with allegations that he was aware of the phone hacking activities during his time as editor. In December, the court found evidence of “widespread and habitual” phone hacking at MGN. Although Piers Morgan has denied any involvement, the court’s ruling has sparked concerns about privacy intrusion for financial gain.
The settlement follows a previous ruling in December, where Prince Harry was awarded £140,600 in damages for 15 claims against MGN. On Friday, Prince Harry settled an additional 115 claims, with MGN expressing satisfaction in reaching an agreement to move forward from the events of the past. The publisher has apologized for historical wrongdoings and paid compensation.
Prince Harry’s legal battles are part of a broader legal challenge against MGN, involving other high-profile figures accusing the publisher of engaging in unlawful intrusion. Despite the settlement, Prince Harry’s fight for justice is not over, with unresolved legal battles on the horizon.
The duke’s engagement in phone hacking claims reflects his long-standing disapproval of the British tabloid press and his efforts to protect his privacy. Further legal battles are ongoing, and Prince Harry’s commitment to seeing them through is unwavering. Notably, his allegations of unlawful information gathering by the Sun’s publisher News Group Newspapers are set for trial in 2025.
This settlement highlights the significance of privacy rights in the digital age and serves as a reminder of the legal battles entertainment figures endure to safeguard their personal lives from media intrusion.