Reporter dodges saying sorry to Cliff Richard for story of cop raid on home

A BBC reporter dodged apologising to Sir Cliff Richard in court yesterday for coverage of a police raid on his home.

Dan Johnson said he was not “uniquely” to blame for any distress or damage caused to the singer, 77.

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In a series of questions from lawyer Justin Rushbrooke about the impact of his 2014 story, Mr Johnson said: “I accept the distress he feels.

I don’t accept it was caused by me uniquely.
“South Yorkshire Police was part of that and my many colleagues at the BBC who were part of the story as well.

"I don’t believe I was at fault.

"I just reported the facts of the story.”

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He did concede he was sorry Sir Cliff went through such a difficult time due to the investigation.

He is said to have held cops over a barrel when he approached them claiming to know about their probe.

The High Court heard he threatened to publish details of the inquiry unless police let the BBC film the raid.

He also admitted to calling Sir Cliff a celebrity paedo in an internal email.

But he insisted he never did so publicly and denied it reflected irresponsible journalism.

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Mr Rushbrooke said it shows Mr Johnson “didn’t give a fig” for Sir Cliff or the allegations.

Sir Cliff is suing for substantial damages for breach of privacy and the Data Protection Act.

The BBC argues its coverage was accurate and in good faith.

The case continues.