Overview

This bill amends the law on defamation regarding reports of parliamentary proceedings. It strengthens protections for fair and accurate reporting of parliamentary matters, including reports, publications, and extracts, while maintaining a defense against claims of malice.

Description

The bill inserts a new section (6A) into the Defamation Act 2013. This section grants privilege to fair and accurate reports of parliamentary proceedings, publications by or on Parliament's authority, and copies/extracts thereof. It mandates court stays for proceedings related to such publications or attempts to prevent them. The privilege is lost if malice is proven. Additionally, it amends the Parliamentary Papers Act 1840 to clarify that it doesn't override the Defamation Act 2013's provisions. Finally, it repeals specified sections of the Defamation Act 1996 and Defamation Act 2013 relating to evidence concerning parliamentary proceedings.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The impact is likely to be minimal, possibly involving minor administrative costs related to legal changes and court proceedings.

Groups Affected

• Journalists and Media Outlets: Increased protection against defamation suits when reporting on Parliament.
• Members of Parliament: Enhanced protection for statements made during parliamentary proceedings.
• Individuals mentioned in parliamentary proceedings: May find it more difficult to sue for defamation if the report is deemed fair and accurate.
• Courts: Will need to apply the new legal provisions when dealing with defamation cases relating to parliamentary matters.

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