‘Leveson’s Illiberal Legacy’, a major new report into the findings of the Leveson Inquiry and the subsequent legislation passed to implement Leveson, has found major breaches of the right to free speech that may significantly erode press freedom in the UK. The report was backed by the Free Speech Network, and advised by 89up Thinks, a policy unit inside social impact agency 89up.

The report highlights the many ways in which the Leveson Inquiry and the subsequent legislation has failed to consider the importance of a free press and freedom of expression.

Mike Harris, CEO of 89up, co-author of the report and a free speech expert said:

“Hacked Off and the other proponents of the Leveson regime have entirely ignored the concerns of people across the globe who look at the end of 300 years of press freedom in the UK and express dismay at the example this sets to ruthless dictators and tyrants. If the state gives its backing to a press regulator here, it will mean a Russian oligarch can sue a local newspaper digging into how he made his money. All of the oligarch’s legal fees may have to be paid for by the local newspaper. How can this be fair?”

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You can see the report here: http://www.89up.org/leveson

The report was sponsored by major publishers behind some of Britain’s biggest national newspapers including DMG Media, News UK and the Telegraph Media Group.

For more information about 89up please contact Charlene Badibanga on 020 3740 5320 or charlene@89up.org