Liz libel latest

Following the NEC's decision in September 1995 not to endorse Liz Davies as PPC for Leeds North East CLP, the Financial Times published a quote from Tom Sawyer that there was some evidence that she had incited activists to violence. Since the 'evidence' that Sawyer purported to rely on was completely untrue, Liz issued writs against the FT, and also against the three Islington Councillors who had made these allegations: Tal Michael, Phil Kelly and James Purnell.

On Tuesday 4th June 1996, the FT agreed in Court that the NEC had made no such finding against Liz on the issue and that they had not suggested that Liz had ever incited activists to violence. The FT has paid Liz damages for any distress caused to her, and her legal costs. The proceedings against the three Islington Councillors continue, but as the FT capitulates, the three are looking more and more isolated.

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