The PRCA is condemning the Defamation Bill ahead of its second reading in the House of Commons today.

The proposed bill would require claimants to prove the “serious harm” caused to their reputation before taking action on a defamation case.

The PRCA understands this would have a great impact on the comms industry and has called on the government not to “sacrifice” the right of organisations and individuals wanting to protect their reputation.

Francis Ingham, chief executive of the PRCA, says: “Reputation is one of the most valuable assets an organisation can have, which is why in the UK we invest heavily to promote and protect it. To weaken this right would be disastrous.”

The PRCA fears the bill may lead to disproportionately protecting the right to free speech and to the confusion of legal proceedings, both at the expense of those seeking to defend their reputation.

Ingham adds: “The Leveson Inquiry has shown we need legislation that will make it quicker and cheaper for organisations to protect their reputation against often powerful interests. Instead the proposals will make it more expensive to defend our rights and more confusing to interpret the law.”