Murat To Get Damages From Papers

Sky News (Tuesday 15th July 2008), says: Robert Murat has settled a claim for damages with a number of British newspapers over allegations of his involvement in the Madeleine McCann inquiry.

Mr Murat will be in the High Court in London on Thursday to receive apologies from the newspapers.

Sky's crime correspondent Martin Brunt said Mr Murat has settled with the lawyers of eight newspapers. It is believed however that he was looking to sue 11 media outfits.

"I'm told there was speculation about a figure of £2m he was claiming," Brunt said. "As I understand it, he's expecting to get £250,000 to £500,000. Sources say he will get a 'good substantial sum'."

Brunt added that Mr Murat was expecting to get a number of apologies read out in court.

It was widely considered at the time that this was one of the biggest ever libel claims.

Newspapers both in Portugal and Britain wrote many articles about Mr Murat when he became the first 'arguido' - or suspect - in the case of Madeleine's disappearance.

He was hauled in by Portuguese policemen, spoken to and questioned for about 17 hours before being released. He vehemently denied any involvement and was quite taken aback by the newspaper speculation coverage of his alleged involvement.

Apart from allegations of him being involved, there were lurid allegations written about him and his private life.

"It will be of great relief to him," Brunt said. "Certainly, the stigma of what's been said will be removed. It will go to clearing his name in the eyes of the British public. His reputation is somewhat restored."

Mr Murat remains arguido in Portugal and Brunt said there was no sign yet that that would change any time soon.