17 June 2026
In response to the introduction of Anti-SLAPP Private Members’ Bills in both the House of Lords, by Baroness Stowell, and in the House of Commons, by John Whittingdale MP, News Media Association general counsel Sayra Tekin has said:
“Strategic lawsuits against public participation are a clear abuse of the legal system, used to intimidate and silence public interest reporting through cost, delay and pressure rather than merit. Baroness Stowell’s Bill takes a practical and effective approach to tackling this problem, striking the right balance between protecting freedom of expression and safeguarding access to justice by enabling courts to deal with abusive claims early while allowing legitimate cases to proceed.
“This is particularly important for local and regional publishers and freelance journalists, who are often the most exposed to these tactics but least able to absorb the financial and legal burden. With Private Members’ Bills progressing in both Houses, we hope the government will now work constructively with Baroness Stowell and John Whittingdale MP to bring forward legislation that reflects these principles and finally delivers effective protections.”
SLAPPs (strategic litigation against public participation) are abusive legal tactics used to intimidate and silence those speaking in the public interest (such as journalists, whistleblowers, victims of abuse and others), often through costly, drawn-out proceedings that deter scrutiny and accountability.