Long running battle over claims made on Panorama programme ends
Mohammed Taranissi, a doctor specialising in fertility treatment, has settled his libel claim against the BBC. Mr Taranissi brought the claim in respect of allegations contained in a Panorama programme broadcast in January 2007.
The BBC initially relied on justification and Reynolds qualified privilege defences but in October 2007, withdrew its Reynolds qualified privilege defence in order to protect the programme’s confidential sources. The broadcaster stated that it would continue with its defence of justification to trial, but announced last night that both parties had agreed to settle the case.
5RB‘s Adrienne Page QC and Jane Phillips acted for the BBC. Desmond Browne QC had acted for the BBC in the early stages of the claim (prior to being named as Chairman of the Bar).
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