Loutchansky v Times Newspapers Ltd and others (No. 4)

Reference: [2001] EMLR 898

Court: Queen's Bench Division

Judge: Gray J

Date of judgment: 27 Apr 2001

Summary: Libel - Reynolds qualified privilege

Appearances: Desmond Browne CBE KC (Claimant) 

Instructing Solicitors: Olswang for the Claimant; Reynolds Porter Chamberlain for the Defendant

Facts

The Times newspaper published articles alleging the claimant was engaged in serious international criminal activities, in particular money laundering. The newspaper had obtained no comment from the claimant on its allegations prior to publication. There was no defence of justification at trial, but The Times argued its allegations were protected by Reynolds qualified privilege.

Issue

Whether the defence of Reynolds qualified privilege was available.

Held

The defence was not available. Judgment for the claimant.

Comment

This was the first full trial of Reynolds qualified privilege, with a jury.