§ 33. Brigadier Medlicottasked the Attorney-General when he will introduce legislation to carry into effect the recommendations of the Porter Committee on the law of libel.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI am unable to say when it will be possible to introduce legislation to deal with the recommendations of this Committee.
§ Mr. DribergIn expediting this legislation as much as he can, would my right hon. and learned Friend also consider, in consultation with the Lord President of the Council, the setting up of the Press Council, since the two proposals are to some extent complementary?
§ The Attorney-GeneralCertainly, Sir. The establishment of a Press Council which will ensure that the greater liberty and latitude to the Press which would follow on the proposed amendment to the law of libel was not allowed to develop into licence, for which there was no redress, would greatly assist those who, like myself, would like to see the law of libel amended in favour of the Press.
§ Mr. HarrisonWould my right hon. and learned Friend say whether there are any special difficulties in introducing legislation to meet the recommendations of this Committee?
§ The Attorney-GeneralIt is to some extent a complicated and, in some ways, controversial matter.