Slashdot Mirror
UK Bloggers Could Face Libel Fines Unless Registered As Press
Diamonddavej writes "The Guardian warns that Bloggers in the U.K. could face costly fines for libel with exemplary damages imposed if they do not sign up with a new press regulator under legislation (Clause 21A — Awards of exemplary damages) recommended by The Leveson Inquiry into press behavior and ethics. Kirsty Hughes, the chief executive of Index on Censorship, said this a 'sad day' for British democracy. 'This will undoubtedly have a chilling effect on everyday people's web use.' Exemplary damages, imposed by a court to penalize publishers who remain outside regulation, could run into hundreds of thousands of pounds, easily enough to close down smaller publishers such as Private Eye and local newspapers. Harry Cole, who contributes to the Guido Fawkes blog says he does not want to join a regulator, he hopes his blog will remain as irreverent and rude as ever, and continue to hold public officials to account; its servers are located in the U.S. Members of Parliament voted on Clause 21A late last night, it passed 530 to 13."
He doesn't have to. We've had these arguments many times before, and those in favor left with black eyes every time. Sometimes, it's just not up for debate anymore, and if you're still on the wrong side, you're beyond hope.
You obviously didn't read this part: "There may be more to the story than the scant details which have appeared in the Belgium press...". The also article doesn't mention what he was actually found guilty of, it just mentions the headline grabbing act of the tearing. Understand? No? I don't blame you though. I blame your education system. You're the victim here.
"there are no significant restrictions". Really? Google the term "national security letter" or "wardrobe malfunction", jeez use your imagination. Now excuse me while I go and gamble some money on a poker site, which by the way is protected by my country's freedom of speech laws. You deluded imbecile.