Princess Diana crash findings due

The findings of an investigation into the car crash which killed Princess Diana and Dodi Al Fayed in Paris are to be revealed.

The Met Police's official inquiry, led by former chief Lord Stevens, is expected to conclude their deaths were the result of a tragic accident.

It is likely to say the crash was caused by drunk chauffeur Henri Paul.

The princess, 36, and Mr Al Fayed, 42, died when their Mercedes crashed in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in August 1997.

The couple were chased by paparazzi photographers on 31 August as they drove from the Ritz hotel to Mr Al Fayed's flat.

Mr Paul also died in the crash.

A French investigation into the crash concluded he had lost control of the car because he was driving too fast while under the influence of alcohol and prescription drugs.

Conspiracy theories

Lord Stevens' inquiry, estimated to have cost as much as £4m, brought together some 20,000 documents and 1,500 witness statements.

Part of the remit of Lord Stevens' 15-strong inquiry team has been to investigate some conspiracy theories surrounding the deaths.

Dodi's father, Harrods boss Mohamed Al Fayed, is among those who do not believe the deaths were an accident.

One conspiracy theory suggested blood samples from Mr Paul were switched at the morgue to hide the truth that Princess Diana was murdered. French police conducted further tests proving the blood was Mr Paul's.

There is speculation the crash report will allege the US's Central Intelligence Agency was bugging the princess's telephone conversations in the hours before she died, a claim the American agency has denied.

Princes Charles, William and Harry have already been briefed on Lord Stevens' findings, ahead of a news conference at which the former Met chief will reveal his conclusions.

His findings form part of the inquest, due to resume next year, into the deaths of the couple which is being overseen by former judge Lady Butler-Sloss.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/6176769.stm