UK judge rejects injunction bid; appeal remains possible

A High Court judge rejected a public figure’s bid to prevent two media organisations from publishing allegations of sexual misconduct, but did not rule on whether the allegations are true. The figure denies them and can seek to appeal; anonymity and reporting restrictions remain in force while that process is pending.

• The judge dismissed the injunction request, finding that granting it would seriously restrict freedom of expression; he did not assess whether the allegations were true.· 2 sources
• The man denies the allegations and argued that publication could lead him to take his own life; the judge said the stated risk must be taken seriously but did not make publication subject to a permanent ban.· 2 sources
• He may take the case to the Court of Appeal, and anonymity and reporting restrictions remain in force during the period allowed for an appeal.· 2 sources