British Chiropractic Association drops Simon Singh case
British Chiropractic Association drops claim against science writer Simon Singh
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By Matt Hallam. |  |
Thursday, 15, Apr 2010 05:12
By Emer Martin.
A bitter legal battle involving science writer Simon Singh ended today after the British Chiropractic Association (BCA) dropped its libel claim two weeks after Dr Singh won an appeal against them.
In April 2008, the Guardian published an article by Dr Singh in its Comment and Debate section in which he criticised the BCA for claiming that its members could help treat certain childhood disorders.
The BCA sued Dr Singh and the high court held that he had alleged the BCA had been dishonest in the article, which he would have to prove was true.
But in a landmark judgement in the court of appeal on April 1st this judgment was overturned and it was held that the author could use the defence of fair comment as his statements were those of "honest opinion."
In his judgment, Lord Judge said that although Mr Singh's decision may be mistaken, it was wrong to make him prove in court what he had asserted by way of argument.
He warned against the danger of a court becoming "an Orwellian ministry of truth".
Today the BCA's solicitors, Ely Place Chambers said in a statement: "The BCA today served a notice of discontinuance bringing to an end its ill-fated libel claim against Dr Simon Singh.
"Dr Singh's predicament was seen as a rallying point for those concerned about the abuse of UK libel laws in connection with scientific debate."
Today Dr Singh said he had been through "two years of hell" but he was very relieved that the case was over. However he plans to pursue the BCA for his legal costs which are estimated to be more than £200,000.
"That explains why people don't fight libel cases." Mr Singh said.
The court of appeal decision confirms scientists and journalists should be free to question claims made by companies or organisations without opening themselves up to a libel action. But Dr Singh as said he will continue to campaign for libel reform, which many feel is long overdue.
Courts and England and Wales have become known as hotspots for libel tourists, applying increasingly outdated laws which can gag public debate, especially on the internet.
"English libel law is so intimidating, so expensive, so hostile to serious journalists that it has a chilling effect on all areas of debate, silencing scientists, journalists, bloggers, human rights activists and everyone else who dares to tackle serious matters of public interest," Dr Singh added.