BBC Disputes Cliff Compensation Claim

The BBC has said it should not pay Sir Cliff Richard the damages he is seeking as a result of the coverage of a police raid on his home in 2014.

The singer was investigated over historical sexual assault allegations which he denied. The case was the dropped in June 2016, due to insufficient evidence.

Now, the singer is hoping to secure "very substantial" damages from the BBC and South Yorkshire Police because he says the coverage invaded his privacy.

The BBC has apologised for the distress caused, but denies that it should be sued for damages.

Legal papers have been lodged at the High Court in London pending the start of any court hearings.

Sir Cliff's lawyers argue that the star suffered "profound and long-lasting" damage from the live televised coverage of the raid on his home in Sunningdale, Berkshire, and from being publicly named as a suspected sex offender.

Gavin Millar QC, who is heading the BBC's legal team, said:

"It is denied that the claimant is entitled to damages or compensation as alleged at all. It is admitted that the claimant suffered distress. The BBC has already told the claimant it is very sorry that this was the case."

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