There was a time when getting an apology out of the Daily Mail was like extracting a raise out of a Johnston Press managing director – but libel has become an expensive business and these are straitened times.
Today the Mail issued this apology to former home secretary Jacqui Smith:
“Following a story on Channel 4 News alleging Jacqui Smith was challenging Sir Thomas Legg’s request for repayment of £1,500 expenses, we ran a story saying she was haggling over £500.
“We accept that this was incorrect and that she has repaid all the sum asked except £39.99 for a barbecue she had never claimed for.
“We are sorry we got this wrong and are happy to clarify the facts.”
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