What is the total reported legal costs incurred by Associated Newspapers Limited?

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Associated Newspapers Limited Incurred £34 Million in Legal Costs

Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL) incurred total legal costs amounting to £34 million, equivalent to US$45 million, in the case brought by Prince Harry, Elton John, and five other claimants. The publisher's legal team argued that the claimants should bear a larger portion of these expenses. The final sum payable by the claimants is contingent on the court's decision regarding the basis of cost assessment.
Legal Costs Breakdown and Argument

ANL's lawyers presented their case for cost recovery during a High Court hearing, asserting that the claimants should be responsible for a greater share of the publisher's substantial legal expenditure. This argument was made in the context of the claimants losing their lawsuit concerning allegations of unlawful information gathering and privacy invasions. The total costs for ANL were reported at £34 million (US$45 million).
Basis for Cost Assessment

The amount the claimants might have to pay hinges on whether the judge orders costs to be paid on a "standard basis" or a more stringent "indemnity basis." ANL's counsel advocated for the indemnity basis, characterising the litigation as an extensive campaign rather than typical legal proceedings. This stricter basis could significantly increase the claimants' financial liability.
Claimant's Insurance Coverage and Potential Shortfall

Representing the claimants, Nicholas Bacon indicated that a significant financial burden would arise if they were compelled to pay on the indemnity basis. The combined insurance cover for the claimants stood at £16.2 million. This level of coverage, Bacon suggested, would be insufficient to meet their total cost exposure, potentially leaving them millions of pounds out of pocket.

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What is the total reported legal costs incurred by Associated Newspapers Limited?

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