https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-bs...4A34V120081104
The Virgin/Sky dispute started in 2007 with the basics being removed on 1st March. It was resolved in November 2008.
Given the inaccuracy of a straightforward fact in your post I'm quite happy to simply assume the rest of it as baseless speculation. Grateful if you could find anything for me on the personality aspect of it though, it'd be interesting reading - if it exists at all.