The most pernicious form of libel is so-called ‘libel tourism’, where wealthy foreign corporations or individuals use UK courts to defend their often dubious reputations.
English PEN and Index on Censorship are in the process of launching the first phase of their call to reform the libel laws. This will consist of a broad consultation with publishers and newspapers on how free expression is constrained and what needs to be done so that the right to research and write freely does not fall prey to the fattest cats.
Reform of the libel laws is long overdue. While we may wish to guard against invasion of privacy, particularly of vulnerable individuals, the present legal regime too often chills expression and results in censorship. The system, as it stands, is open to abuse, and the result is an ever-decreasing space for the free expression that is vital to a healthy democracy.
Those who would like to be involved in the upcoming consultation are encouraged to contact English PEN (catlucas@englishpen.org) or Index on Censorship (milly@indexoncensorship.org)
Lisa Appignanesi, President, English PEN
Jo Glanville, Editor, Index on Censorship
Jonathan Heawood, Director, English PEN
John Kampfner, Chief Executive, Index on Censorship
