Why Was Prince Harry Missing From the Trial Against Mirror Group Newspapers?

Prince Harry's absence on the first day of his phone-hacking trial against Mirror Group Newspapers caused difficulties for his legal team. They had to explain that he chose to stay in Los Angeles to attend his daughter's second birthday party instead of being present in court. The judge had requested his presence on Monday in case the lawyers finished their opening arguments earlier than expected.

When the Mirror's legal team indicated they would expedite their opening arguments, Harry's team admitted that he would not be ready in time, much to the annoyance of the judge. Given that the trial is taking place in the civil court system without a jury, it is generally considered unwise to upset the judge who will decide the outcome.

David Sherborne, Harry's barrister, informed the court that his client had left California on a Sunday night flight but had made attending his daughter's celebration a priority. Andrew Green KC, who will cross-examine Harry on behalf of Mirror Group Newspapers, described it as "extraordinary" that the prince was absent on the first day of his own trial. Mr. Justice Fancourt appeared to agree and suggested the possibility of extending the time for cross-examination of Prince Harry on Tuesday and Wednesday, if needed. Green is expected to question Harry's evidence and his motives for bringing the case.