Newspaper to publish 'Sophie tapes'

Countess of Wessex Sophie Rhys Jones is set for more embarrassing publicity after the News of the World confirmed it is to publish the full "Sophie tapes".

The newspaper said tomorrow's edition would carry transcripts of videotapes shot by a fake Arab sheikh.

Royal aides expect a raft of embarrassing revelations, with indiscreet references to senior royals and leading politicians.

It is thought the paper is acting in defiance of an agreement with Buckingham Palace not to publish the material, in exchange for an exclusive interview with the Countess.

The report tomorrow is expected to run to some 10 pages.

The newspaper, which trapped the Countess and business partner Murray Harkin in a classic "sting", is understood to have consulted lawyers last week about publishing the tapes.

The pair were secretly recorded talking to an undercover reporter posing as a rich Arab.