News Group Newspapers Issues Unprecedented Apology to Prince Harry and Late Princess Diana
In a landmark settlement, News Group Newspapers (NGN), the publisher of The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World, has issued a "full and unequivocal apology" to Prince Harry for "serious intrusion" into his private life. The apology extends to the late Princess Diana, acknowledging the profound impact on the royal family.
The settlement concludes a protracted legal battle, with NGN admitting to unlawful activities, including phone hacking, surveillance, and misuse of private information by journalists and private investigators between 1996 and 2011. The publisher has agreed to pay substantial damages to Prince Harry, reportedly an eight-figure sum.
This admission marks the first time NGN has publicly acknowledged such misconduct, representing a significant victory for Prince Harry in his efforts to hold UK tabloids accountable. The apology also encompasses the distress caused to his late mother, Princess Diana, during his younger years.
Prince Harry's lawyer, David Sherborne, emphasized that the settlement vindicates other claimants who were previously pressured into settling. He urged for a formal investigation into NGN's illegal actions and cover-ups.
This development underscores Prince Harry's ongoing efforts to seek accountability for media intrusion, a battle deeply rooted in his personal experiences with the press's treatment of his family. The settlement not only brings closure to a long-standing legal dispute but also highlights the need for ethical journalism and respect for individual privacy.