Libel And Slander

The written word defaming an individual or making allegedly false claims (libel) can be tested in court. A slanderous (verbal) attack can similarly be examined in court and this procedure has been played out many times. Slander or libel is not always proven and counter lawsuits can then be taken out against the original accuser. It can get messy and expensive, but redress is possible when unsubstantiated claims are possibly made. Slander or libel has a contest arena. Court. Private slander if recorded or witnessed is probably sufficient for legal action to ensue.

It is totally illogical to expect protection when published on a public domain. The internet. The assumption that 'anything goes' is clearly wrong. The social networking provider can possibly argue no responsibility, since the content of posts (except possibly those blatantly accusing named individuals) cannot be reasonably and continually monitored and censured. The author of any post is completely responsible for all comments made in the posting.

The forum of the social networking site is not protected against slanderous or libelous claims. No such act can be legally made or excused. Slander or libel are slanderous and libelous if proven to be so. No protection should be available for anyone.

Even the device of parliamentary privilege is debatable. Accusations can be legally made 'in the house' (of Commons) and integrity and honesty are only implied. They are not necessarily examined.

• Great care is taken over the composition of all the articles on these pages to check any claims made. If verification is not possible, wording must be so constructed to not accuse (hey, even Louis ain't that stuipid! - DA).

• No accusatory (and unnecessary) attack is knowingly made and conclusions can only be made by the reader. This is not regarded as cynical, but fair and reasonable. Where possible a balanced argument is the aim and articles are so constructed from all angles - DA.