Overview

This bill aims to clarify and strengthen the legal protection for fair and accurate reporting of parliamentary proceedings against defamation claims. It does this by amending existing defamation laws and repealing outdated provisions.

Description

The bill introduces a new section (6A) to the Defamation Act 2013, granting privilege to:

• Fair and accurate reports of parliamentary proceedings.
• Fair and accurate reports of anything published by or on the authority of Parliament.
• Fair and accurate copies, extracts, or summaries of anything published by or on the authority of Parliament.

The bill mandates that courts must stay proceedings if the defendant proves the publication falls under these categories or if the proceedings aim to prevent such publication. The defence is negated only if the claimant proves the defendant acted with malice. It also amends the Parliamentary Papers Act 1840 to clarify that it doesn't affect the Defamation Act 2013, and repeals certain sections of the Defamation Act 1996 related to evidence concerning parliamentary proceedings.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The cost of implementing the changes will likely be minimal, primarily involving administrative adjustments to legal processes.

Groups Affected

• Journalists and Media Outlets: Increased protection against defamation suits when reporting on Parliament.
• Members of Parliament (MPs): Enhanced protection for statements made during parliamentary proceedings.
• Individuals mentioned in parliamentary proceedings: Potentially more restricted ability to sue for defamation related to parliamentary discussions, unless malice can be proven.
• Courts: Changes to legal procedures related to defamation cases involving parliamentary proceedings.

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