Bunhill: Air war
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.ONLY three weeks to go before what promises to be the mother of all libel battles and still no sign of peace.
On 11 January, Richard Branson will go into court against Lord King, over claims by the British Airways boss that his Virgin rival lied about a BA 'dirty tricks' campaign against him.
Not to be outdone, Lord King counter-charges that a letter from Branson to BA non- executive directors was defamatory.
Talking to both sides last week, it was clear that the chances of a rapprochement (there have been peace overtures, most notably by a BA non-executive director) appear to have faded. 'We'll be in court on 11 January. That's it as far as we're concerned,' said a Virgin spokesman.
The trial is expected to last 10 to 12 weeks and will contain mud-slinging on an epic scale. No effort is being spared to dig up dirt on the enemy. Every possible manoeuvre is being explored: one of the BA team declares he will grow a beard and wear a baggy jumper and a cheesy grin just to compete with Branson for the hearts and minds of the jury.
In the Virgin corner will be George Carman QC, who needs no introduction. BA will be represented by Christopher Clarke QC, who will give as good as he gets - I am assured by Mervyn Walker, the airline's legal director.
George Carman versus Lord King - it does not bear thinking about.
(Photograph omitted)
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments