Michael Jackson settles with sheikh

Michael Jackson has reportedly reached an out-of-court settlement in a £4.7 million lawsuit brought against him by a Bahraini sheikh.

Jackson was due to testify today at the High Court in London, however, a spokeswoman said that an agreement "in principle" had been reached and that the star would not be in attendance.

Sheikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa claimed that the singer reneged on a recording and entertainment venture, profits from which were to pay back money he had advanced to Jackson.

Contesting the claim, Jackson said the funds were a "gift" and denied that there had been a valid agreement.

The spokeswoman said: "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. Therefore, he will not be attending court on Monday."

Jackson's lawyers had applied for the star to give evidence by video link from the US because of health fears. The application was later withdrawn.