Prince Harry has decided to withdraw his libel claim against the publisher of the Mail on Sunday, Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL). The claim was related to an article published in February 2022 about Harry’s legal challenge against the Home Office regarding changes to his publicly funded security arrangements when visiting the UK. The article alleged that Harry tried to keep details of his legal battle a secret from the public, prompting the duke’s lawyers to argue that it undermined his honesty, integrity, and charity work.
ANL, the publisher of the Mail on Sunday, contested Harry’s libel claim, asserting that the article expressed an “honest opinion” and did not cause serious harm to his reputation. A judge had previously found that parts of the article were defamatory, suggesting that Harry intentionally misled the public. Despite this, Judge Mr Justice Nicklin ruled in favor of ANL in a bid to have their defense thrown out, stating that the publisher had a “real prospect” of arguing their case. As a result, the case was moved closer to a trial, which was scheduled to take place between May and July.
Harry’s Focus on the Home Office Case
According to a spokesperson for Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex, Harry chose to withdraw the libel claim in order to focus on his separate case against the Home Office. The spokesperson explained that the main hearing relating to the duke’s judicial review with the Home Office had already taken place, and they were awaiting the final decision on the lawfulness of the security measures taken by the government. The safety of Harry’s family, particularly his children Archie and Lilibet, remains his primary concern.
The withdrawal of the libel claim raises questions about how the legal costs of the case will be determined. Earlier reports had suggested that ANL’s legal bill could be as high as £250,000, but the spokesperson described it as premature to speculate on the final figure. Adjudicating the case against the Home Office separately, Prince Harry argues that the decision to reduce his personal protective security in the UK was unfair and unreasonable, and could impact the well-being and “feeling at home” of his children in the country. A judgment in the Home Office case is expected to be delivered at a later date by a different judge.
The Lengthy Legal Process
It is worth noting that years have passed since Prince Harry filed the original complaint, highlighting the elongated nature of legal proceedings. The Duke of Sussex’s initial intention to pursue the libel claim may have been influenced by his desire to seek redress for what he perceived as an attack on his reputation. However, with the progress of the separate case against the Home Office, it appears that he has shifted his focus towards the issues directly affecting his family’s security.
Prince Harry’s decision to drop his libel claim against the Mail on Sunday represents a significant development in the ongoing legal battles faced by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. While the withdrawal of the claim may raise curiosity about its impact and the determination of legal costs, it is apparent that Harry’s priority lies in pursuing action against the Home Office. As the judgment regarding the lawfulness of the security measures is awaited, the royal couple remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of their family.
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