Today, the High Court will hear argument in a preliminary issue trial and strike out application in a libel claim arising out of publication of a tweet and a comment on an online website.
Heather Williams J will determine whether the words complained of would be understood to refer to the Claimants (and whether to strike out the Claimants’ case on reference innuendo); the natural and ordinary meaning of the words complained of; whether they are statements of fact or opinion; and whether they are defamatory of the Claimants at common law.
5RB’s William Bennett KC appears for the Claimants, instructed by Patron Law. Adam Speker KC and Samuel Rowe appear for the Defendant, instructed by Payne Hicks Beach.