[2007] EWHC 2501 (QB)

An initial oral complaint about an alleged crime and subsequent witness statement were essential early steps in an embryonic criminal investigation and therefore qualified for absolute privilege and immunity from suit because it was necessary to protect those who had given evidence to the police and to encourage them to speak freely without the fear of being sued in defamation for doing so.

QBD (Richard Parkes QC)

30/10/2007