Libel and the Media: The Chilling Effect

This accessible and jargon-free book, based on Eric Barendt and his collaborators' interviews with editors of national newspapers, journalists, and their lawyers, uncovers the extent to which libel laws stifle press freedom. The authors examine the present state of libel law (including the Neill reforms and the law in Scotland) and then explore the impacts of libel law upon national and regional newspapers, broadcasters, and book and periodical publishers. This is a lively study which will appeal not only to journalists and lawyers, but to all who are interested in the freedom of the press in the UK or media studies in general.