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\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514 TUKAHA MUA,
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\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Scott, J
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 1 April, 2000
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12197432 HBC}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid595338  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3095642 0068}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4597731 /}{
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\par 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 Striking out - no reasonable ca}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514 use of action - defamation - breaches of the Code of M}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 edia Ethics an}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514 d Practice - whether the plaintif}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 f has been gravely injured in his credit and reputation in his profession as Assistant Minister of Information and brought into public}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514  }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 scandal, odium and con}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9054787 tempt - High Court Act s. 31(1);}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514  H}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 igh Court R}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514 u}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 les }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514 O.18 r.1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 (a), 19; }{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514 O.32 r.9;}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514  Defamation Act ss}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid1776514 .}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514  2 and 3; 1997}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12197432  Constitution article 30(1}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3288011 )(a),}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1776514 (b)
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
\par The plaintiff alleged two incidents were defamatory of his credit and reputation. In the first incident, the third defendant and crew allegedly
 trespassed into his private offices without express permission and proceeded to interview without permission, causing him humiliation and embarrassment. The first defendant broadcast a story that it was denied entry into a media conference where other me
d
ia of choice were allowed in. The plaintiff alleged that the words of the broadcast in their ordinary meaning meant the plaintiff called one news conference and intentionally excluded the first defendant, that the plaintiff intentionally excluded the repo
r
ter who was tasked with reporting, that the plaintiff intentionally wanted to avoid the coverage by the first defendant and that the plaintiff told lies about the time and date of the media conference. The Court found the first three complaints unobjectio
nable but could not find that there was a lie capable of constituting defamation. The second incident arose out of the Prime Minister's visit to Rakiraki. The plaintiff alleged that the words of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 the resulting broadcast in their ordinary meaning meant the pl
aintiff was to be replaced, that he would be replaced sooner than later, that the Ministry of Information needed a shake up as it was not performing to the accepted level of performance, that the plaintiff would be replaced as he was incapable of performi
ng his duties as Minister of Information, that his purported replacement is better than the plaintiff and government needed him urgently. The Court found the first four complaints unobjectionable as ministerial reshuffles are routine,}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5125491  and found the l}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514 atter two remote}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 ly}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514  disparaging.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1008926 Held}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  - (1) Alleged breaches of the Code of Media Ethics and Practice do not plead defamation;}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (2) The latitude afforded the principle of fair comment for comments on matters of public interest and well known public figures is exceptionally wide;}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (3) The right to fair comment is a fundamental right of free speech and of vital importance to the rule of law on which we depend for our personal freedom;}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (4) Words complained of amounted to no more than fair comment or criticism of the public acts of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 a public man;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1776514\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (5) The action against the first four defendants is doomed to failure and cannot proceed further.
\par 
\par Paragraphs 2 to 13 of the Statement of Claim against the first four defendants are struck out.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1008926 Cases referred to in Decision
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid460576 cons }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842 Hubbock v Wilkinson}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842  [}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 1899] 1 QB 86
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid460576 cons }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Attorney-General of}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12197432\charrsid942842  }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Duchy of Lancaster }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842 v L & NW Rly Co.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842 
 [1892] 3 Ch 274
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid460576 cons }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Wenlock v}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842  }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Moloney}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842 [1965] 1}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842  WLR 1238}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid12197432 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid460576 cons }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Drummond-Jackson v BMA}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842  [1970] 1 WLR 688

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid460576 cons }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Lilly v Roney}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842  (1892) 61 LJQB 727}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid12197432 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid460576 cons }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842 Law v Llewellyn}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid942842  [}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 1906] 1 KB 487
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid460576 app}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid460576 l }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Lyons v Daily Telegraph}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842  [1943] 1 KB 746
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid460576 appl}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid460576  }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842 Manitoba Press v Martin}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid942842  (1892) 8 Manitoba R 50
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 Suresh Chandra fo}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515 r }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid7360515 the}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515  }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 plaintiff
\par W}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515 illia}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 m}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515  W Clarke}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515  for the 1}{\i\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 st}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515 , 2}{
\i\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 nd}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515 , 3}{\i\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 rd}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515  and 4}{\i\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 th}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid7360515  d}{
\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid7360515 efendants
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926 No appearance by the 5}{\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid1008926 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 defendant
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926 11}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  April, 2000.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1008926 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1008926 DECISION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid1008926 Scott, J
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1008926\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
The first four Defendants apply to have the Statement of Claim struck out on the ground that it discloses no reasonable cause of action. At the hearing Mr. Clarke confined his application to paragraphs 5 to 13 of the Statement of Claim since paragraphs 14
 & 15 only concern the 5th Defendant who was not joined in the application.
\par 
\par The Plaintiff commenced his action on 23 February 00. It is an action in defamation. The relevant paragraphs of the Statement of Claim arise out of a visit by a television camera crew to the Plaintif}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14637055 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
s offices at Government Buildings on 17 December 1999, a report or reports of that visit broadcast by the 1st Defendant on 17 and 18 December and another}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  report broadcast by the 1}{
\fs18\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid3480060 st}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  Defendant on 7 January 00 following a visit to Rakira
ki by the Prime Minister. It is said that by reason of the matters complained of which are also alleged by the Plaintiff to involve breaches by the Defendants of the Code of Media Ethics and Practice the Plaintiff has been "gravely injured in his credit a
nd reputation in his profession as Assistant Minister of Information in the Prime Minister's Office and has been brought into public scandal, odium and contempt."
\par 
\par The Court's power to strike out given b}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16713933 y RHC O}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 18 r(1)(a) will only be exercised in "plain and obvious cases" (}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3480060 Hubbock v. Wilkinson}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  [1899] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
1 QB 86) and where the impugned pleading is "obviously unsustainable" (}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3480060 Attorney-General of Duchy of Lancaster v. L}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3480060 &}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3480060 NW Rly Co.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  [1892] 3 Ch 274). So long as a Statement of Claim discloses at least some cause of
 action or raises some question fit to be decided by the Court the mere fact that the case is weak or is not likely to succeed is}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  no ground for striking it out (}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3480060 Wenlock v. }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 M}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3480060 alon}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid460576 ey}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  [1965] 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  WLR 1238). In
 a defamation action, In particular, if the words complained of are capable of having a defamatory meaning then in England the Statement of Claim will not be struck out as disclosing no cause of action (}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3480060 Drummond-Jackson v. BMA}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  [1970] 1 WLR 688).
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid12919280 Although 
the substantive law of defamation in England and Wales is broadly similar to that in Fiji there are nevertheless significant differences, some of which should be borne in mind.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 In Fij}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 i the legislation }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2492335 is the Defamation Act (Cap. 34).}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  The Act does not refer to television broadcasts as such but Sections 2 & 3 are in my view wide enough to cover them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 In England and Wales the trial of defamation actions is by Judge and jury}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2492335 . As}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 in criminal trials the Judge decides the law while the jury mak}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 es findings of fact. The jury al}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 so assesses the damages. In Fiji on the other hand civil causes in the High Court are tried}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  by a Judge alone (H}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
igh Court Act Cap. 13 - Section 31(1)). The Judge in Fiji is not only the Judge of the law but also the Judge of the facts.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 In England an application brought under RSC O 18 r 19 is made to a Master with a right of appeal to a single }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 Judge. In Fij}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 i this typ}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 e of interlocutory application}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 is always made to a Judge since as yet no Master of the High Cour}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 t has been appointed (see High}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  Court (Amendment Act) 1998) and the jurisdiction of the Chief Registrar does not extend to these applications (see O 32 r 9).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 In my opinion these three differences cumulatively have a significant effect on questions which a Judge may ask when considering an application such as this.
\par 
\par First, however, the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
s complaints must be considered in some detail.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Paragraphs 5, 6, 7 and 9 arise out of the visit to the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2101124 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 s offices at Government Buildings on 17 December 1999. Paragrap
hs 7, 8 & 9 provide a convenient starting point since these paragraphs contain the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2101124 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 s own account of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 what actually happened. They read as follows:

\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3480060 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 "7. TH}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
AT on or about 17th December 1999 the first Defendant by its News reporters including second Defendant entered the Private Offices of the Plaintiff without any express permission to do so.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3480060 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 That on 17 December, 1999, I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
mraz Iqbal and the crew approached the Ministry of Information Office. The Plaintiff did not invite the crew and in fact were told to leave the ministry premises. There were express notices on the doors and on the walls to exclude any public member includ
ing the first Defendant or its agents. Without due regard to those notices, the first Defendant or its agents entered the private offices of the Plaintiff.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3480060 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 The Plaintiff expressly t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 
erminated entry to offices and f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 lm}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
ing of the offices by agents of the first Defendant but they ignored the express wish.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3480060 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060 8}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
. THAT on or about 17 December, 1999 the first Defendant by its agent, third Defendant and the Crew Members abused and }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 harassed}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  the Plaintiff.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3480060\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3480060 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That on 17 December, 1999, the third Defendant without any noti
ce to the Plaintiff entered the private offices of the Plaintiff and started filming without consent from the Plaintiff.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
The third Defendant without any permission or warning asked inappropriate questions to the Plaintiff.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 The Plaintiff indicated express
ly to the third Defendant to terminate the purported interview but the t}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 hird Defendant persistently har}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
assed the Plaintiff in front of his own office staff.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 The Plaintiff felt very much humiliated and embarrassed from the actions of the third Defendant.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 9.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 THAT the first Defendant or its agents or employees sought from Plaintiff interviews information an}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 d pictures by intimidation; har}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 assment and persistent pursuit."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Assuming as one must that the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12919280 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 s account is corre
ct it can then be compared with the account which was broadcast by the first Defendant and to which the Plaintiff takes exception as being false, malicious and defamatory. Paragraph 5 sets out the words used in the broadcast. They are:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 "Reporter }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid15758791 IMRAZ }{
\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid15758791 IQB}{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid15758791 AL}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
 who was tasked with the story was turned away. Other media organisations were allowed to go into the Ministry.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
It seems that a press conference was called, other Journalist were allowed to stay. Fiji One News were the only ones not allowed in.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 The rea
son for not allowing Fiji One News into the Media Conference remains bizarre and no answers could be obtained from those concerned.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
Fiji One understands that the Minister only wanted a reporter he chose and not one that was tasked by the News Director."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12919280 According to paragraph 6}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  the words in their ordinary and natural meaning meant:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 "(a)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff called one news Conference and intentionally excluded the first Defendant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (b)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff intentionally excluded the reporter who was tasked with the job of reporting.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (c)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff told "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12919280 lies" about the time and date of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
 Media Conference.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (d)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff intentionally wanted to avoid the coverage by the first Defendant."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Conceding for the moment that the broadcast words do ind
eed point to the conclusions said to be derived from them then in my view (a), (b) and (d) are entirely unobjectionable. There is no obligation upon an Assistant Minister of Information either to call or not to call a press conference. There is no reason 
w
hy he should have anyone present at his press conferences unless he wishes them to be there. There is no reason why he should not brief one of the organs of the media rather than another. I can see nothing wrong in his doing any of these things and theref
ore nothing wrong in saying that they were done. The only allegation which disparages the Plaintiff is that contained in paragraph (c): the allegation that he had lied. But try as I might to understand how Mr. Chandra}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 explained that the suggestion that the 
Plaintiff had lied followed naturally from the word used, I could not. Mr. Chandra's argument appeared to be that no press conference had actually being called. Assuming that to be the case then it was the Defendants who had lied, not the Plaintiff.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 As has been seen paragraphs 8 and 9 allege that the television crew trespassed into the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4620021 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 s office, abused, ha}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
rassed and intimidated him causing him to be humiliated and embarrassed. In argument Mr. Chandra made it clear that the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4620021 '}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 s claim was being brought in defamation only and not in any other tort. In my view the matters complained of in paragraphs 8 and 9 are incapable of constituting defamation.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 The next matter complained of is the broadcast of 7 January 00 which followed the 
Prime Minister's visit to Rakiraki. The words complained of are set out in paragraph 10 and their alleged defamatory mea}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4620021 ning is set out in paragraph 11}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  as follows:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 "(a)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff is the Minister of Information a}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 nd will be replaced by Mr. Datt.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 (b)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff will be replaced because he is incapable to perform his duties as Minister of Information.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (c)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff woul}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 d be replaced sooner than later.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 (d)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintiff would be replaced because of clashes between the Minister of Information and media.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 (e) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
That the Ministry of Information needs a shake up as it is not performing to the accepted level of performance.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 (f) }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 That the Plaintif}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid613278 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
s purported replacement is better than the Plaintiff and the Government needs him more urgently as Minister of Information than the Plaintiff."}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Government reshuffles are routine. They take place for many reasons. Sometimes Assistant Ministers become Ministers. In my view sub-paragraphs (a
), (c), (d) and (e) do not reflect badly on the Plaintiff in any way and are therefore entirely unobjectionable. Only (b) and (f) (assuming them to flow naturally from the actual words complained of, which is not at all clear) are remotely disparaging.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Paragraph 12 which alleges the breach of the Code of Media Ethics and Practice does not in my view plead defamation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Disregarding paragraphs 14 and 15 which, as already explained are not before the Court for consideration it seems to me that all the case ag
ainst the first four defendants amounts to is a claim that they suggested that the Plaintiff was incapable of adequately performing his duties as Assistant Minister for Information and was therefore likely to be replaced.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 In England the general practice is not to anticipate the defence or defences which may be pleaded when considering a strike out application in}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  defamation proceedings (see }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid10298989 Dr}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid10298989 um}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid10298989 m}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid10298989 ond Jackson v. BMA}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
 - supra) but where the pleading under consideration itsel}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  immediately suggests a complete defence, notice of that}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 defence will be taken (see }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid10298989 Lilly v Roney}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  (1892) 61 LJQB 727 and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid10298989 Law v. Llewellyn}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  [}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid613278 190}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 6] 1 KB 487). Bearing in mind the procedural differences between the jurisdictions which have already been referre
d to I can find no objection to considering obvious defences to the present pleadings. To do otherwise would in my view be artificial.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 The Plaintiff is the Assistant Minister of Information and the first Defendant is Fiji's National Television Station. As
 anyone who lives in Fiji knows, the Plaintiff is a very well known public figure who frequently appears on radio and television. He is a regular correspondent to the national daily newspaper}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 s. Hi}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 s relationship with the media (as seen by the present case) has not always been entirely harmonious. Where the fault lies is not for me to say.
\par 
\par The principle of freedom of expression is enshrined }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 in our Constitution. Section 30(1)(a)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
(b) guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression including the freedom to in}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
part information and ideas and the freedom of the press and other media. The right to fair comment:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 "is one of the fundamental rights of free speech and writing which are so dear}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  ... and it is of vital importan}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 ce to the rule of law on which we depend for our personal freedom." (}{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid10298989 Lyons v. Daily Telegraph}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16713933  [1943] 1}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  KB 746, 753.)}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Where the matter commented on is, as it obviously is in this case, a matter of public interest and the person in respect of whom the comments are made is the holder of a public
 office then the latitude afforded to the commentator by the}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 Courts is excep}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 tionally wide. In the words of Bain J}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378  in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid16713933 
Manitoba Press v. Martin}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16713933  (18}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 92) 8 Manitoba R 50:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10298989 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10298989 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
One who undertakes to fill a public office offers himself to public attack and criticism and it is now admitted and recognised that the public interest requires that a man's public conduct shall be open to the most searching criticism."}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4474378 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
\par In my opinion the words complained of by the Plaintiff, even}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14567974  viewed in the worst possible l}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 
ight, amount to no more than fair comment or criticism of the public acts of a public man. As such they are perfectly lawful and can attract no sanction from the Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14567974\charrsid4474378 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 In my view the Plaintif}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2652736\charrsid4474378 f}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid553220 '}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 s action against the first four Defendants is doomed to failure and I do not think that it would be right to allow it to proceed further.
\par 
\par Paragraphs 2 to 13 of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14567974  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid4474378 the Statement of Claim are ordered struck out.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14567974\charrsid4474378 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7215188 {\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid14567974 Application Succeeds.}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14567974\charrsid14567974 

\par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3026871 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4657735\charrsid3026871 Marie Chan
\par }}