Catch-up (August): defamation statistics confirm the trans-atlantic convoy

Statistics on defamation actions in the year to the end of May 2007 released by Sweet & Maxwell indicated that 30% of cases were brought by 'celebrities' to defend their reputations, and that of these a significant number involved (predominantly US) forum-shoppers. The research also indicated that 13% of all defamation cases were related to allegations of links to terrorism. A further purported trend - the increase in online defamation - was mentioned, although apparently not borne out by the statistics on reported cases.