Prince Harry faces legal costs after losing Daily Mail privacy case

Prince Harry and several other prominent individuals face substantial legal costs after their privacy claims against the publisher of the Daily Mail were comprehensively rejected by London's High Court. The ruling means they may have to cover a significant share of Associated Newspapers' expenses.

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a complete and obvious whitewash

Earlier this month, a judge ruled against King Charles' younger son, Sir Elton John, and five other British figures, dismissing allegations of widespread unlawful activities, including phone hacking, by Mail titles. Associated Newspapers hailed the decision as a victory for a free press, while Prince Harry described the ruling as a "complete and obvious whitewash."

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a banquet of litigation

At a hearing to determine cost allocation, Associated's lawyer argued for the claimants to pay on an "indemnity basis," meaning the losing party covers the other's charges without needing to prove proportionality. The court was informed that Associated's legal bill stands at £34.5 million, contrasted with the claimants' insurance coverage of £16 million.

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It was entirely inappropriate and unreasonable

Associated's legal team contended that the claimants had made broad and serious "egregious" allegations without adequate supporting evidence, thereby inflating costs. They are seeking an interim payment of £10 million. The claimants' lawyers, however, called Associated's legal bill "eye-watering" and noted a shortfall in their security. They have offered an interim payment of £8 million.

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any application for permission to appeal that decision had been deferred until after Nicklin gave judgment on the costs.