Grotesque Libels

This book provides an insider's view of the law of libel. It is written by an investigative journalist who, during a long career in newspapers and television, has been a defendant, a plaintiff and, most notably, a key witness in "the libel trial of the century" - Jeffrey Archer versus "The Star". His analysis of some of the most sensational actions in recent years ranges from the case of the flea at the Tory Party Conference to the unhappy experiences of Derek Jamieson and Charlotte Cornwell in trying to clear their reputations. He examines the cunning of generations of "Private Eye" journalists in endeavouring to duck libel writs, and gives a detailed account of his own successful libel action against the editor of the "Mail on Sunday". This book raises many important questions. How much of a hindrance is the existing law to serious journalism? Is anything resembling justice to be found in the libel courts? Or is the current law of libel simply a cosy cartel for a handful of super-rich barristers, solicitors and plaintiffs?