English Libel Law (Parliamentary Proceedings) — [Mr. Roger Gale in the Chair]

Part of the debate – in Westminster Hall at 2:30 pm on 21 October 2009.

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Photo of Gerald Howarth Gerald Howarth Shadow Minister (Defence) 2:30, 21 October 2009

First, I ought to declare an interest. Some years ago, I benefited from the services of Messrs. Peter Carter-Ruck and Partners in a case against the BBC.

Is it the hon. Gentleman's case that no agreement can be reached between parties through the courts of this land to keep a matter confidential? It is my understanding that from 18 September, The Guardian consented to the order, but that it is right for Parliament to be able to overturn an arrangement arrived at in the courts, particularly at the behest of an hon. Member who happened to be a journalist on one of the newspapers concerned?