Victory for Libel Reform (UK)

The somewhat controversial Defamation Bill has now had its final reading in the House of Lords. It is anticipated that it will pass back to the House of Commons for approval and then proceed to the statute book.

The Bill, which aims to "ensure that a fair balance is struck between the right to freedom of expression and the protection of reputation"*, has enjoyed a wealth of support, not least from the scientific community. Indeed, it's raison d'être was the proposal to prevent well funded corporations or pressure groups from suing newspapers, academics or citizens unless they can first prove "substantial financial loss" has been caused by their critics; step up the libel reform campaigners.

Faced with the risk of being derailed on a number of occasions since it was first tabled in 2009, the Defamation Bill has finally succumbed to the pressures from the libel reform camp. Last night's volte-force by the UK Government has been welcomed by the Society for Endocrinology.

Society for Endocrinology, along with many from within the scientific community, actively lobbied the UK Government and request they urgently schedule the Bill's return to the House of Commons to complete its passage before the current parliamentary session ends.

*Source