Protection of investigative journalism high on the agenda
Justice Secretary Jack Straw has set out proposed reforms to protect investigative journalism and tackle the perceived threat of libel tourism.
A single publication rule will be introduced. Currently, each “hit” on a webpage produces a new publication and consequently gives rise to a new cause for action.
Under the proposed reforms, claimants will only be able to sue if they bring their action within one year of the date of the original publication. The courts will have discretionary powers to extend this period.
A statutory “public interest” defence could be introduced to protect the work of investigative journalists, scientists and NGOs. The government may also tighten up the rules about claims concerning publications outside of the EU in a bid to deter libel tourists.
Straw’s proposals follow the 23 March report of the Libel Working Group, a team of libel lawyers and newspaper editors established by the Ministry of Justice in January.
The reforms could be introduced in the next Parliament—after the General Election—in the shape of the Libel Reform Bill.
Separate measures
