Burrell Refuses To Return To Diana Inquest

Former Royal butler Paul Burrell has refused to return to give further evidence at the inquest into the deaths of Diana, Princess of Wales, and Dodi Al Fayed.

Mr Burrell gave evidence to the inquest last month. However, in a video recording obtained by 'The Sun' newspaper, Mr Burrell allegedly claims that he did not tell the whole truth in the inquest.

Coroner Mr Justice Scott Baker had called for Mr Burrell to return to the inquest from his home in Florida to explain about the situation. However, the coroner said that he could not force him to return because he is in the US and out of the court's jurisdiction.

Transcripts of the recording will be read to the jury instead.

A statement issued by the court said: "The coroner's purpose, in seeking to recall Mr Burrell, was for him to explain the alleged inconsistencies between what he said in evidence and what he said on the occasion referred to in The Sun.

"In light of Mr Burrell's refusal to give evidence, the coroner has taken the decision that further information form Mr Burrell should be read to the jury to ensure they have as much information as possible."

It is understood that the recording was made in a New York hotel room on February 18. After 'The Sun' printed the story, Mr Burrell said that he had been tired and depressed and had been drinking all evening when the conversation took place. He added that he was trying to impress someone at the time and insisted that he had not lied to the inquest.

The inquest continues.

(KMcA/JM)