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April 16, 2010

Simon Singh wins libel battle – but the war is yet won

By Press Gazette

Yesterday Simon Singh won a major victory for freedom of the press in his battle with the British Chiropractic Association.

He was sued over a Guardian piece in which he argued that claims made about chiropractic medicine and children’s health were wrong.

His case has become a touchstone for libel campaigners who argue that if scientists cannot discuss matters relating to children’s health openly in the media then freedom of speech in the UK is in a sorry state.

Plans for wide-ranging reform of UK libel law have been shelved by the calling of a general election. But with all three main political parties now pledged to support libel reform campaigners will be hopeful that action can be taken early on in the next parliament.

Read Press Gazette’s in-depth coverage of the UK libel debate below.

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