hc4361 - // £210k isn't a great deal but it's a start. The award for the loss of earnings will be much greater, I'm sure. //
I doubt any award will be given for 'loss of earnings' because it is not possible to calculate imagined earnings, so the courts do not usually entertain such claims.
What will make a difference is if punitive damages are awarded, they could be tens of millions of pounds.
I think the BBC behaved appallingly here.
They are supposed to be the premier broadcaster in the world, the one the rest look up to for it's reputation for professionalism.
And here it behaved like a low-market tabloid, pretending to be 'acting in the public interest', but actually acting on what interests the public, which is absolutely not the same thing.
Their behaviour stank then, and I hope they have the belated and undeserved dignity to can their intention to appeal, pay up, shut up, and remember who they are and what they actually do.
They report news, they don't titter behind their hands at pop stars' purported behaviour, making them the accused before they are even arrested, much less convicted.