Jack Straw appoints Mark Stephens as part of his new libel law working group, consisting of senior lawyers, newspaper executives and scientists to consider changes to the law on libel.
The group would examine concerns that:-
- the current law was having a "chilling effect" on freedom of expression;
- defamation laws in England and Wales can encourage "libel tourism" - foreigners using British courts to contest their claims; and
- some scientists have said their work is undermined by the fear of being sued.
The working group, which is expected to report in the middle of March, will be chaired by Ministry of justice chief legal officer Rowena Collins-Rice.
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