Prince Harry has welcomed a judge’s decision to allow his privacy case against the Daily Mail publisher to go to trial.
In a statement, the Duke of Sussex and others involved in the case expressed delight that their claims over “serious criminal activity” could now be heard.
Prince Harry’s lawsuit goes to trial
The High Court judge dismissed the Daily Mail’s attempt to have the case thrown out at this stage.
In a statement issued by law firm Hamlins, Prince Harry and the other claimants said they were “delighted with today’s decision.”
The statement revealed that the judge found each claim had a “real prospect” of showing the Mail titles concealed unlawful acts which were only recently discovered.
With the Daily Mail failing to get the case dismissed, it can now proceed to a full trial.
Harry’s legal team stated that the claims relate to “deplorable and illegal activities” by the newspaper group.
This allegedly included hiring private investigators to bug their cars and homes and illicitly accessing medical and financial records.
The aim is now said to be uncovering the truth at trial and holding those at Associated Newspapers “fully accountable.”
“We intend to uncover the truth at trial and hold those responsible at Associated Newspapers fully accountable,” the lawyers said.
The other claimants include Elton John, Elizabeth Hurley, and Baroness Doreen Lawrence.
In response to today’s ruling, Prince Harry said he is “delighted” that the case can continue against the Daily Mail publisher.
His legal team maintains that the evidence will expose gross breaches of privacy through criminal means to obtain stories.
The allegations date back many years and the claimants argue the unlawful practices were concealed until now.
But Associated Newspapers wholly denies what it calls “preposterous smears” and claims there is no credible evidence.
Despite the publisher’s attempt to have the case thrown out, the judge found the claims have merit.
Harry and the other public figures now have the chance to air their grievances in court.
This trial is shaping up to be another legal showdown between Prince Harry and the British tabloid press.
The outcome will determine if he can prove widescale infringement of privacy by the Daily Mail, or if the publisher can demonstrate the allegations lack substance.
