The law firm Carter-Ruck has made a fresh move that could stop an MPs' debate next week by claiming a controversial injunction it has obtained is "sub judice". The move follows the revelation of the existence of a secret "super-injunction" obtained by the firm on behalf of the London-based oil traders Trafigura. The injunction not only bans disclosure of a confidential report on Trafigura and toxic waste, but also banned disclosure of the injunction's very existence, until it was revealed by an MP this week under parliamentary privilege. Carter-Ruck partner Adam Tudor today sent a letter to the Speaker, John Bercow, and also circulated it to every single MP and peer, saying they believed the case was "sub judice". If correct, it would mean that, under Westminster rules to prevent clashes between parliament and the courts, a debate planned for next Wednesday could not go ahead.
The move follows the revelation of the existence of a secret "super-injunction" obtained by the firm on behalf of the London-based oil traders Trafigura.
The injunction not only bans disclosure of a confidential report on Trafigura and toxic waste, but also banned disclosure of the injunction's very existence, until it was revealed by an MP this week under parliamentary privilege.
Carter-Ruck partner Adam Tudor today sent a letter to the Speaker, John Bercow, and also circulated it to every single MP and peer, saying they believed the case was "sub judice".
If correct, it would mean that, under Westminster rules to prevent clashes between parliament and the courts, a debate planned for next Wednesday could not go ahead.
This seems to be outright contempt of Parliament. Sure, parliament doesn't discuss cases before the courts - but purporting to tell them they cannot (rather than them choosing not to) is attempting to interfere with MPs in the course of their duties, a classic contempt.
These scumsucking lawyers have gone way too far this time...
Of course the situation is farcical, the libel law is farcical and should be repealed, these total gagging orders are ridiculous and should be repealed. They are an abuse of the system and totally against any understanding of the concept of free speech.
But that's what happens when a bunch of lazy MPs tug their forelocks and serve the interests of rich and powerful people and corporations who want to ensure that nobody gets to hear about their disgusting behaviour.
F-C's behaviour is not outrageous under the alw as it stands. It's the law itself which is outrageous. It should be changed. But there's too much money flowing through the system for it to stand a chance of being changed. keep to the Fen Causeway
