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LATEST NEWS & EVENTS Clegg announces libel law reforms  Plans to change laws affecting litigation and dispute resolution have been outlined by the deputy prime minister. Nick Clegg said today (January 7th) that the government wants to change current libel laws which have a "chilling effect" on free speech. The government will introduce a defamation bill in the spring that will provide a new statutory defence for those speaking out in the public interest, such as scientists and journalists. Recent cases have seen scientists threatened with legal action for comments made about certain products or professions. Science writer Simon Singh was sued for his statement about chiropractors, while Rodial attacked by Conservative MP David Davis for being a bully after it threatened Dr Dalia Nield with court action for her comments about one of its products. "It is simply not right when academics and journalists are effectively bullied into silence by the prospect of costly legal battles with wealthy individuals and big businesses," said Mr Clegg. He also stated that the government will seek to end so-called libel tourism, which he described as a "farce". In addition, the government has published a consultation on proposals by Lord Justice Jackson to reform civil litigation funding. Posted by Gaby Hamerton 
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