Cook v Alexander

Facts

A newspaper published a parliamentary sketch that gave prominence to one speech critical of the plaintiff in a debate.

Issue

Was the sketch protected?

Held

Yes. A fair, honest sketch of a debate is protected by qualified privilege, even if it selects parts of the debate.

Principle

Fair reports of parliamentary proceedings made in good faith are privileged.

Why it matters

Compare the protection of fair reports in the 1991 Constitution.

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