Justice Fancourt outlines concerns over trial schedule as proceedings face second adjournment.
Prince Harry's highly anticipated trial at the High Court in London experienced further delays on its opening day, prompting Justice Fancourt to issue a stern warning against future postponements.
The trial, involving the Duke of Sussex and Labour MP Tom Watson in their case against News Group Newspapers (NGN), was initially set to begin at 10:30 a.m. but was delayed twice—first to 11:30 a.m. and later to 2 p.m.—at the request of Harry’s barrister, David Sherborne.
Justice Fancourt expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, "I am a little concerned about the timetable overall." While allowing the delay, the judge warned, "This has to be the last adjournment." He added, "An hour or two in the context of eight weeks is not significant, but it must result in a beneficial outcome."
The first adjournment was requested by Sherborne, who acknowledged the potential disruption, stating, "I appreciate that might cause some inconvenience."
NGN lawyer Anthony Hudson KC supported the request for additional time, but the repeated delays tested the court's patience.
Prince Harry and Lord Tom Watson have accused News Group Newspapers of engaging in unlawful information gathering, allegations the media group denies. While the Duke of Sussex was not present on the trial's opening day, he is expected to take the witness stand during February hearings to testify against the media company.
The trial, which is anticipated to last eight weeks, continues under intense public and media scrutiny.
