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Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation Bill

A Bill to make provision about the misuse of litigation to suppress freedom of speech.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

23 September 2024

In Plain English

AI-generated

The Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation Bill aims to curb the use of lawsuits to silence people who speak out on issues of public interest. It would give courts powers to dismiss or manage cases quickly if they are mainly aimed at stifling discussion, and to limit the financial burden on those defending themselves. In short, it is about protecting freedom of speech by preventing abusive litigation.

Key Points

Targets strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) that are used to silence critics rather than resolve genuine disputes
Introduces mechanisms for early dismissal or strike-out of cases deemed to be primarily about suppressing public debate
Provides cost protections or penalties to deter abusive litigation against individuals or groups speaking on public interest issues
Applies to proceedings involving public participation, including online platforms, media, campaigns, and other public-interest discussions
Requires careful judicial consideration to distinguish legitimate claims from abusive actions, with guidance in accompanying explanatory notes

Progress

The bill is currently in Committee stage in the House of Commons, where MPs are scrutinising the clauses and considering amendments.

Who is affected?

Journalists and media organisationsOnline commentators, bloggers, and social media usersCampaign groups, charities, and non-governmental organisations involved in public debateMembers of the public who participate in discussions on public-interest mattersIndividuals and small organisations facing potential SLAPP actionsLegal professionals and the courts involved in civil litigation

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation Bill

9 May 2024

The dissolution of Parliament took place on Thursday 30 May 2024. All business in the House of Commons and House of Lords has come to an end and this bill will make no further progress.