Libel – Reynolds qualified privilege
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.
Whether the defence of Reynolds qualified privilege was available.
The defence was not available. Judgment for the claimant.
This was the first full trial of Reynolds qualified privilege, with a jury.