Legal Action By Peer Against News Group (Press, 3 August 1964)

On 2 August 1964, it was reported that Lord Boothby, who had publicly rejected allegations about a homosexual relationship with a London gang leader, has decided to take legal action against Daily Mirror Newspapers, Ltd. His decision came after writing a letter to "The Times" due to distress caused by persistent rumours stemming from articles in the "Sunday Mirror." Lord Boothby described the "Sunday Mirror" and "Daily Mirror" as sources of these "sinister rumours" regarding his supposed connections with a convicted criminal. After considering the situation for several days and consulting extensively with legal advisors, Lord Boothby chose to confront the allegations directly, despite recommendations from prominent friends who believed the rumours would fade on their own. He recounted a timeline of events that began approximately ten weeks prior when a stranger contacted him about a business matter. Unaware of the man's criminal background, Lord Boothby initially perceived him as an accomplished businessman promoting a legitimate housing development project in West Africa. During their meetings, the stranger requested that Lord Boothby serve as the chairman for the venture, but after reviewing the details, he declined the role. In a follow-up visit, the man expressed a desire for a photographs with Lord Boothby, claiming admiration for his television appearances. This resulted in a brief get-together during which a photo was taken on Boothby's sofa, marking their last encounter. The situation escalated when the "Sunday Mirror" published its first report on 12 July, titled "The Peer And The Gangster." This article alleged that the Metropolitan Police Commissioner had initiated an inquiry related to alleged extortion and blackmail connected to Lord Boothby, a claim that the Commissioner subsequently denied. A second story followed on 19 July, dubbed "The Picture We Must Not Print," which further fueled speculation. Eventually, the German magazine "Stern" included both Lord Boothby's name and that of the alleged gangster in a version of this unfolding story. In response to the allegations, Lord Boothby enlisted the services of leading counsel, including Lord Gardiner, Q.C., and Mr Colin Duncan, Q.C., to represent him in the forthcoming legal battle against the newspapers. Through this legal action, Lord Boothby aims to clear his name and address the damaging implications of the allegations that have disrupted his personal and public life.

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