Al Fayed spokesman Michael Cole denies accusations against Ritz

Police Considering Prosecution of Ritz Over Car Crash

The judge investigating the deaths is considering legal action against the Ritz for sending the couple out with a drunk and unqualified driver. Police in Paris have said that the prospect of extending the inquiry beyond the behaviour of the paparazzi is now under serious consideration.

The decision follows evidence that the chauffeur Henri Paul was at least twice over the drinking limit and did not have the necessary permit required in France to drive VIPs in heavy, high-powered limousines.

The Al Fayed organisation had rejected claims that Henri Paul did not hold the appropriate permit to drive the armoured Mercedes S-280.

Al Fayed spokesman Michael Cole said allegations made by an unnamed member of staff at the Ritz Hotel are "entirely false". Mr Cole said Mr Paul, who also died in the accident, was legally permitted to drive the car.

And Mr Paul's family rejected allegations by the public prosecutor that the driver was drunk with more than three times the permitted level of alcohol in his blood. His family is demanding new tests.

Mohammed Al Fayed's lawyer has said his client would pursue a civil case against the seven photographers arrested at the crash scene if he was not satisfied with the criminal charges.