TORY MP Liam Fox has settled his libel action against businessman Harvey Boulter over remarks the latter made to Sky News.

At London's High Court yesterday, counsel Jonathan Barnes told Mr Justice Tugendhat that the former defence secretary's reputation had been vindicated and he was pleased there was no need for him to pursue the action to trial next week.

Mr Barnes said the terms of the settlement were confidential but included the payment of a sum in damages as well as Dr Fox's legal costs.

Mr Boulter's counsel, Matthew Nicklin QC, said: "Through me, he unreservedly withdraws the words posted on Sky News's website and apologises to Dr Fox for the embarrassment and damage to his reputation."

Mr Barnes said the remarks made by Mr Boulter, chief executive officer of Porton Capital Inc, were part of a November 2011 interview and remained on the website until November 2012.