There was a very significant judgment in the High Court last Thursday in the case of Denis O'Brien v. Sunday Business Post, which was a very significant and good day for journalism but it does bring into question the issue of defamation laws. Is it intended to advance a change to our defamation laws or will he consider the call from the National Union of Journalists that there should be a commission into the future of the media, which will obviously look at things like social media and other platforms at the same time? This is a critical issue as to the health of our democracy and health of journalism into the future.

As to the issue of the reform of the defamation laws, Members will be aware that the current law, the 2009 Act, is the subject matter of a review. There is a wide-ranging consultation process underway, and has been for some time because of its breadth. I expect to have a report in the next five to six weeks and I would be very keen then to move matters on towards the next stage, keeping the House fully informed as I proceed.