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ARTICLE · 11 AUGUST 1999

Truth or Dare?

United KingdomLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration

Jonathan Aitken needs no reminding of the serious consequences which can follow from telling lies in Court. His unsuccessful crusade against ‘the cancer of bent and twisted journalism’, has cost him his reputation, marriage, financial security and freedom. After the collapse of Aitken’s libel action his debts were estimated at £8.5 million. He has now been declared bankrupt and his personal belongings are being auctioned by trustees acting for his creditors.

In January this year he pleaded guilty to perjury and perverting the course of justice. His crime was to lie to the High Court about details surrounding his stay at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and to draft a witness statement for his daughter which contained false information. He was sentenced by the Old Bailey in June to eighteen months in prison.

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