HC Deb 28 May 1936 vol 312 c2200
89. Mr. PARKER

asked the Attorney-General the number of successful libel actions against publishers of newspapers and other publications, respectively, brought in the last year in the courts of this country?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir Donald Somervell)

No statistics are available giving the information for which the hon. Member asks. I am not satisfied that the figures, in so far as they could be ascertained, would be of sufficient interest to justify the considerable labour and expense involved.

Mr. PARKER

Is the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there is considerable disquiet over legal decisions in libel actions, and will he take steps to see that legislation is introduced to clarify the matter?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL

No, Sir, I am not aware of that

Mr. MICHAEL BEAUMONT

Is there any reason why these people should have any more rights than anyone else to insult people?