Please note: The full report of this case could not be confirmed; this summary is limited to the point the case is usually cited for.
Facts
Cited for the point that repeating someone else's words is a fresh publication; wrong is not justified by wrong (Best CJ).
Issue
Is repeating a libel a defence?
Held
Repeating someone else's defamatory words is a fresh publication; wrong is not justified by wrong (Best CJ).
Principle
Repeating someone else's defamatory words is a fresh publication; wrong is not justified by wrong (Best CJ).
Why it matters
Repetition rule.
Cited in these chapters
Cite this page
De Crespigny v Wellesley (Lanbuk) <https://www.lanbuk.com/llb/torts/cases/de-crespigny-v-wellesley> accessed 31 October 2026
The accessed date is today's date. Check your course or publisher's style guide.
This summary is a Lanbuk study aid based on the generally known facts and reports of the case. It is not legal advice.