The European Court of Human Rights ruled that the UK's ban on political advertising on television and radio did not violate freedom of expression under Article 10 ECHR. The case established that states have a wide margin of appreciation in regulating political broadcasting to prevent wealthy interests from distorting democratic debate.

European Court of Human Rights case concerning UK government restrictions on press freedom regarding the Spycatcher affair. The court found violations of Article 10 ECHR but accepted some restrictions were initially justified.

Established the Reynolds defence (qualified privilege for responsible journalism) allowing media defendants to escape liability for defamatory statements on matters of public interest if published following responsible journalistic standards, regardless of truth.

Vague binding over orders violate Article 10 freedom of expression requirements.

European Court establishes 'margin of appreciation' for state restrictions on expression

The European Court of Human Rights found that the UK's injunction preventing The Sunday Times from publishing articles about the thalidomide scandal violated Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. This landmark case established that restrictions on press freedom must be strictly justified and that 'prescribed by law' requires accessible and foreseeable legal standards.

Government bodies cannot sue for defamation to protect democratic debate.

European Court held that publication of private photographs of Princess Caroline violated Article 8, establishing strong privacy protection against media intrusion.

Established the classic definition of defamatory meaning as words that tend to lower a person in the estimation of right-thinking members of society generally, or cause them to be shunned or avoided, or expose them to hatred, ridicule or contempt.

Home Secretary cannot abuse statutory powers to punish lawful licence purchases

Ministers cannot adopt blanket policies that fetter discretionary statutory powers.

Government loses bid to suppress Cabinet minister's political diaries

State liability extends to legislative acts where breach manifestly and gravely disregards EU law.

House of Lords rules prerogative powers subject to judicial review

Attorney General cannot veto court orders on freedom of information disclosure

Restraint of trade covenants must be reasonable between parties and serve public interest.

Member States may restrict free movement to protect fundamental values like human dignity.