's lawyer gave a statement outside the High Court this morning, shortly after .

Speaking on behalf of the duke, David Sherborne described the outcome as a "monumental victory" and "News UK is finally held to account for its illegal actions and its blatant disregard for the law".

The lawyer said the settlement represents "vindication for hundreds of other claimants strong-armed into settling without getting to the truth".

He continued: "After endless resistance, denials and legal battles by News Group Newspapers, including spending more than £1bn in payouts and in legal costs, as well as paying off those in the know in order to prevent the full picture from coming out, News UK is finally held to account for its illegal actions and its blatant disregard for the law."

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