The BBC has claimed to have discovered a handwritten note from Princess Diana that appears to absolve journalist Martin Bashir of using false documents to influence her Panorama appearance. Diana's document refers to mocked-up bank statements which the corporation has said Mr Bashir - who interviewed the royal - admitted commissioning as he tried to gain access to the princess. Timeline of a scandal August 31, 1995 – Earl Spencer meets Martin Bashir at Althorp, the family’s Northamptonshire home. April 7, 1996 – The Mail on Sunday details how the two faked bank statements were crucial factors in Princess Diana agreeing to the interview with Bashir. The BBC has said that Mr Bashir, now the BBC's religion editor, is seriously ill with Covid-related complications and unable to comment.

Source: Daily Mail November 13, 2020 20:27 UTC