Investigator Denies Hacking Confession Linked to Prince Harry Privacy Case
A private investigator at the center of the Prince Harry privacy case has denied signing a statement that allegedly admitted to phone hacking. Gavin Burrows told the High Court in London that his supposed confession was forged.
Burrows said the 2021 statement, which claimed he carried out unlawful information gathering for UK tabloids, was “prepared by others without my knowledge.” He insists his signature on the document was falsified.
Dispute Over Key Evidence
The statement had been used as part of serious allegations against Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL), publisher of the Daily Mail. The case accuses ANL of committing “grave breaches of privacy.”
Prince Harry, Sir Elton John, actress Liz Hurley, and campaigner Baroness Doreen Lawrence are among the high-profile claimants. They allege that journalists and private investigators engaged in illegal activities, including phone tapping and bugging private property.
However, Burrows’ recent denial casts doubt on one of the most important pieces of evidence in the case. He stated that he had no involvement in preparing or authorizing the alleged confession.
Publisher Denies Allegations
ANL has strongly rejected all accusations. The company has called the claims “lurid” and “preposterous,” maintaining that its journalists acted within the law.
The High Court is expected to review the validity of Burrows’ statement and consider whether it should remain part of the evidence. As the case continues, public interest remains high due to the involvement of well-known figures and the potential implications for press freedom in the UK.
