Statutory reporting privilege claimed
GEO TV Limited, which broadcasts the Urdu television channel GEO News in the UK, is applying to HHJ Lewis on Friday 21 July 2023 for summary judgment in a libel claim brought against it by Salman Iqbal, the founder and president of the ARY network, which also provides Urdu content to the UK. The claim arises from GEO’s coverage of a public address in the Punjab in May 2022. GEO argues that its broadcasting was protected by reporting privilege under section 15 of the Defamation Act 1996.
5RB’s Richard Munden is counsel for GEO TV, instructed by Carter-Ruck. Jonathan Barnes KC is counsel for Mr Iqbal, instructed by Gresham Legal.