A nine-week trial is set to begin on Monday involving seven high-profile individuals, including Prince Harry, Sir Elton John, and Baroness Doreen Lawrence, who are suing Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL). The plaintiffs allege that ANL participated in illegal activities, such as installing listening devices and accessing private communications.
The group filed legal claims against ANL on October 6, 2022, citing "compelling and highly distressing evidence" of serious privacy violations. ANL has categorically denied these allegations, calling them "preposterous smears" and claiming the actions are part of a larger attempt to associate the company with past scandals.
During a hearing on March 27, 2023, held at the Royal Courts of Justice in London, ANL sought to dismiss the claims, arguing that the cases were filed too late. Barrister David Sherborne, representing the plaintiffs, outlined the various unlawful acts they alleged, which extend from 1993 to 2018. The group is also joined by politician Sir Simon Hughes, actress Sadie Frost, and Liz Hurley in their pursuit of justice.