London, November 3 : The Central Criminal Court in England has refused bail to two persons charged over an alleged blackmail plot, which involves a member of the royal family.

Justice Gross turned down the request of Ian Strachan, who has been jointly charged with blackmail with one Sean McGuigan, when his application for bail came up for hearing before the Old Bailey on Friday.

The hearing was to take place in private, but was opened to the press following legal representation by media groups.

The court had adjourned hearing on a previous application in a few minutes last week, as the lawyers required more time to prepare.

Strachan, who is in custody at Belmarsh prison, was not present at the hearing.

He and McGuigan are due to appear at the Old Bailey on 20 December, when an indictment will be put to them.

The identity of the royal victim is being kept under wraps for legal reasons, reports the Independent. (ANI)