§ 64. Mr. Joel Barnettasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the operation of the law on the subject of the qualified privilege of councillors, in view of the case brought to his attention by the hon. Member for Heywood and Royton whereby Heywood councillors were warned of the danger of being sued for personal damages if they criticised the quality of work carried out by council contractors; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Graham PageI have no evidence that the law as it stands inhibits responsible debate by councillors.