CL-2022-000367 - [2025] EWHC 2877 (Comm)

The Debarring Order had far-reaching effects on the evidence. As noted above, only 6 of the Claimant’s witnesses were called, there was of course no cross-examination and only two were subjected to my questioning. Furthermore, none of the Defendants’ witnesses were called to give evidence. I raise this because CVS’s case included criticisms of Mr Joel Hogarth – Mr Bonnier’s external legal counsel.

I am very mindful that Mr Hogarth was not and could not be called to give evidence. Given the serious nature of fraud proceedings, I make it clear that I do not make any findings in relation to Mr Hogarth.