Andrew Mitchell’s lawyers are back in court again arguing over how much the former chief whip has to cough up after losing his libel case last year. It has emerged News Group made offer to Mitchell before the libel hearing, but Mitchell turned it down, costing him “at least £500,000” in costs.

News Group offer last Sept would've allowed Mitchell to "walk away" without having to pay News Group costs, which were then £500k #plebgate

— Danny Shaw (@DannyShawBBC) January 30, 2015

News Group costs are now substantially more than £500k. Judge about to rule on whether Mitchell should pay NGN and PC Rowland's #plebgate

— Danny Shaw (@DannyShawBBC) January 30, 2015

Mr Justice Mitling says that because he failed to accept News Group’s offer he should be liable for their costs and those of PC Toby Rowland.

To add insult to injury, Mr Justice Mitting declares Andrew Mitchell has "lost" today's hearing & must pay the costs. #plebgate

— Danny Shaw (@DannyShawBBC) January 30, 2015

Ouch.