Prince Harry receives apology from Rupert Murdoch newspapers in settlement deal

Prince Harry has triumphed in a legal battle against Rupert Murdoch’s U.K. newspaper group, securing what he calls a “monumental” victory. The lawsuit, filed against News Group Newspapers (NGN) which publishes The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World, alleged that the publisher engaged in unlawful activities by obtaining private information about Harry from 1996 to 2011.

In a statement read in court by Harry’s lawyer, David Sherborne, NGN offered a full and unequivocal apology to the Duke of Sussex for phone hacking, surveillance, and misuse of private information. The settlement also included NGN admitting that Harry was a victim of unlawful activity by The Sun and had been subjected to phone hacking by the News of the World.

Sherborne emphasized the need for accountability, calling for investigations by the British police and government. He accused NGN executives of obstructing the civil case by purging 30 million emails over the years. Sherborne also took aim at Rebekah Brooks, the former editor of The Sun, accusing her of running a criminal enterprise during her tenure.

NGN’s apology, which included a substantial damages payment to Harry, acknowledged the intrusion into his private life and that of his late mother, Princess Diana. The publisher expressed regret over the impact on Harry’s relationships and friendships, promising to pay him substantial damages.

While NGN has paid out hundreds of millions of pounds to victims of phone hacking in the past, it has always denied any wrongdoing at The Sun. The settlement with Harry marks a significant concession, but NGN maintains that there are now strong controls in place to prevent such actions.

Harry’s victory comes after a long-standing battle against British tabloids over their reporting and intrusion into his privacy. The prince, who has been vocal about his struggles with the media, was scheduled to give evidence in court next month before the settlement was reached.

In addition to Harry, Labour Party’s Tom Watson also received an apology from NGN for intrusion into his private life during his time in government. Watson praised Harry’s courage in taking on the tabloids, calling for a personal apology from Rupert Murdoch and his media empire.

The settlement with NGN is a significant win for Harry and others who have been victims of phone hacking and unlawful information gathering by the British press. While the legal battle has been challenging, Harry’s determination and bravery have been commended by supporters.

As the case concludes, Harry hopes that his victory will send a message to the British press that they are not untouchable. With the settlement, Harry has not only secured justice for himself but has also paved the way for others to seek accountability from media organizations that engage in unethical practices.