Government announce review of defamation law

The Government have announced a major review of defamation law in a bid to protect freedom of speech and expression.

Having recognised the impact of the current law on freedom of speech, the government will be seeking a variety of views to ensure that a fair and informed assessment takes place. The Ministry of Justice have expressed that they wish to address concerns about the increase in ‘libel tourism’ – when claimants from outside the UK bring defamation cases to be heard in English courts due to the likelihood of gaining a more favourable result under the current law.

Justice Minister, Lord McNally commented; ‘Freedom of speech is the foundation of democracy. We need investigative journalism and scientific research to be able to flourish without the fear of unfounded, lengthy and costly defamation and libel cases being brought against them’. He referred to the importance of striking a balance between protecting reputation and freedom of expression.

The need for a review of libel legislation was highlighted in the run up to the general election with all three parties pledging to reform the area of law due to views of it being outdated and unbalanced.

The Ministry of Justice are to publish a draft defamation bill that will be put out for consultation in the new year, with the aim of introducing a new bill as soon as parliamentary time will allow.

Posted 12.07.10