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LONDON — A British lawmaker began a new attempt Wednesday to reform the country’s libel laws, long criticized for what is said to be a chilling effect on journalism and free speech.
Liberal Democrat Anthony Lester’s proposed bill is intended to increase the burden of proof on those who sue for libel, forcing them to show evidence they have suffered substantial harm or financial loss.
English law gives much stronger protection to an individual’s reputation than in the U.S., and places the burden of proof on the person being sued for libel rather than the claimant. These laws have enticed foreign celebrities and big businesses — including McDonald’s — to sue for libel in Britain.
