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Defamation, Privacy, Freedom of Expression, Data Protection, Legal Services and Private Investigators
24 January 2023
Lead MP
Bob Seely
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
TaxationEmploymentScience & Technology
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Bob Seely raised concerns about defamation, privacy, freedom of expression, data protection, legal services and private investigators in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Proposes a Bill to make it more difficult for strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) by defining them, explaining their negative impact on freedom of speech and media integrity, providing examples such as the case involving HarperCollins and Catherine Belton’s book 'Putin's People', and introducing measures like a public figure defence in libel cases and early dismissal mechanisms to prevent meritless SLAPPs from reaching trial.
Bob Seely
Con
Isle of Wight
Describes the negative impact of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), providing examples such as cases involving Catherine Belton and the book 'Putin's People', Daphne Galizia, and other instances where SLAPPs are used to intimidate and silence critics. Seely also introduces a Bill aimed at limiting the financial and psychological costs imposed by meritless SLAPPs and introducing sanctions against those who abuse courts.
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Assessment & feedback
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.