The Commons will vote on proposed changes to the Data Protection Bill on Wednesday, which would impose financial penalties and another inquiry on the media
What is government consulting on?
After the Leveson Inquiry into press ethics, a cross-party agreement led to legal changes including provisions that would mean newspapers paying opponents’ legal costs in libel and privacy cases, even if they win, unless they sign up to a recognised regulator.
If the costs reforms are already in law, why is there a consultation?
No date was set for them to come into force.
If papers can avoid costs in cases they win by signing up to a recognised regulator, why the controversy?
The Independent Press Regulation Trust agreed to a £3.8million four-year funding deal it says has been guaranteed by a trust set up by Max Mosley, a former motor racing boss who was a victim of a newspaper sting involving a sex party. Impress has also received a donation from writer JK Rowling.
What impact would Section 40 have?
Critics say the measure would leave papers, particularly in the regional press, fearing financial ruin if they run legitimate exposés.
