§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Attorney-General if he will introduce legislation to ensure that newspapers, while they would be restricted from comment or discussion of the issues once a case has been set down for trial, are not made to cease all inquiry and reporting of a prima facie case when a writ for libel has been issued; what is the longest period in any particular case between the issue of a writ and the setting down for trial; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Attorney-GeneralThis matter is being considered by two committees, Lord Justice Phillimore's Committee on Contempt of Court and Mr. Justice Faulks' Committee on Defamation. The Government will consider the advisability or otherwise of legislation in the light of the reports of these committees when they are received. I regret that the information sought in the latter part of the hon. Member's Question is not available.