Prince Harry’s claim against the publisher of the Daily Mirror, Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN), entered its second day as he presented his case at the High Court in London. The Prince, who is suing for damages, alleged that MGN’s journalists engaged in phone hacking, “blagging” or gaining information by deception, and use of private investigators for unlawful activities. He claimed that about 140 articles published between 1996 and 2010 contained information gathered using unlawful methods, and 33 of these articles have been selected for consideration at the trial.
Throughout his testimony, Harry denied suggestions that his allegations were speculative, stating that there was “hard evidence” in his case. He expressed his frustration and disappointment with the press, stating that they had “misled him and covered up wrongdoing” throughout his life. Harry also referenced the alleged destruction of evidence and the use of “burner phones” by MGN’s journalists.
In his written evidence, the Prince stated that the alleged hacking of his phone “presented very real security concerns for not only me but also everyone around me.” He also claimed that the hacking would have been an “incredibly risky thing to do” and that the journalists would have gone to “extreme lengths to cover their tracks.”
Prince Harry and Meghan (Via Prince Harry and Meghan/Twitter)
When asked about his experience with unusual activity on his voicemails, Harry replied that it “never stopped” from the moment he had a mobile phone. He also expressed his desire for justice and redress, stating that he believed phone hacking was carried out on an “industrial scale” by at least three of the papers at the time.
MGN is contesting the Prince’s claim, denying or not admitting that articles about Harry involved phone hacking or unlawful activity. The trial is ongoing, and the Prince’s claim is being heard alongside three other representative claims.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of phone hacking and unlawful information gathering by the press, and the need for accountability and transparency in the media industry. It also raises questions about the impact of such activities on individuals, particularly those in the public eye, and the importance of protecting their privacy and security.
As the trial continues, Harry’s testimony has shed light on the extent of the alleged wrongdoing and the harm caused by the press’s activities. The Prince’s determination to seek justice and redress has also renewed calls for greater accountability and regulation of the media industry. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, not only by those involved but also by the wider public, who are demanding greater transparency and integrity from the press.
