Jackson Dodges London Court Appearance

Michael Jackson was preparing to board a plane to London, for a scheduled court appearance, when he was told a legal settlement with a Bahraini prince had been reached 'in principle' it has been revealed.

Jackson was being sued by the prince for allegedly reneging on a contract to record new material, in a deal reportedly worth $7m.

The US pop star had been summoned to contest the claims in court, in a case due to commence today.

The London court rejected earlier claims of ill health from the music legend, who had previously requested to submit evidence via video link from LA.

Fifty-year old Jackson was said to be boarding a flight to the UK when he was told of the agreement.

"As Mr Jackson was about to board his plane to London, he was advised by his legal team to postpone his travels since the parties had concluded a settlement in principle," a London spokeswoman for the fallen star said yesterday.

"Therefore, he will not be attending court on Monday," added the spokeswoman from Outside Organisation PR.

Jackson had allegedly backed-out of a creative arrangement he made with the king of Bahrain's son, Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Khalifa, who reportedly financially supported the star.

A lawyer representing the Sheikh earlier accused Jackson of failing to abide by the terms of the agreement; however, the performer claimed the money was gifted, and that the projects were never finalised.

Jackson lived as a guest of the Bahrain royal family after his acquittal of child abuse charges in 2005.

At the time it was reported the reclusive performer was facing financial ruin.

In April 2006, Bahrain music label Two Seas Records released a statement announcing Jackson would record a new album, due for release in 2007.

Jackson allegedly reneged on a $7 million "pay-back" agreement designed to repay money the sheikh had advanced to him.

The singer suggested that there was no valid agreement and that the case is based on "mistake, misrepresentation and undue influence".

(PR/JM)