Press Matters Debate

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Press Matters

Richard Drax Excerpts
1st reading: House of Commons
Tuesday 1st November 2016

(7 years, 6 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Karen Bradley Portrait Karen Bradley
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I do not accept that point. We have commenced the exemplary damages point. We now have a recognised regulator. Now is the time to take stock and look at what further work needs to be done.

Richard Drax Portrait Richard Drax (South Dorset) (Con)
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As a former journalist of some 17 years, I was shocked when only 14 of us in this House voted against the Royal Charter all those years ago, and I questioned whether democracy was at risk. May I remind Opposition Members and perhaps one or two Government Members that phone hacking is already illegal and a person will go to jail if they commit that offence? Finally, local newspapers, which had nothing to do with the scandal that occurred in a very small majority of the major newspapers, fear that if they have to pay costs despite even winning their case, they will have to close down and they will not be able to challenge those who should be challenged.

Karen Bradley Portrait Karen Bradley
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My hon. Friend makes a very important point. This is why we are consulting and taking stock.