Unite the Union v Freitas [2022] EWHC 666 (QB) (23 March 2022)

Unite the Union v Freitas [2022] EWHC 666 (QB) (23 March 2022)

Given the gravity of the defamatory allegations, their extensive publication and republication, the reputational harm to Unite, and the defendant's failure to engage or provide undertakings, an award of £50,000 general damages and a permanent injunction are necessary to vindicate Unite's reputation and prevent repetition.

Citation
[2022] EWHC 666 (QB)
Parties
Claimant: Unite the Union; Defendant: Mr Ricardo Freitas
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
23 March 2022
Procedural Posture
Defamation and Harassment / Remedies Hearing Following Summary Judgment
Outcome
Claim allowed; summary judgment for claimant; remedies granted.
Legal Topics
Libel, Social Media Publication, Damages, Injunction, Corporate Reputation
Defamation Harassment Media Law Libel Social Media Publication Damages Injunction Corporate Reputation

Case Brief

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Parties

Unite the Union

Claimant

Mr Ricardo Freitas

Defendant

Procedural Posture

Defamation and Harassment / Remedies Hearing Following Summary Judgment

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Appropriate quantum of general damages for defamation of a trade union
  2. 2 Entitlement to injunctive relief restraining further publication

Ratio Decidendi

Given the gravity of the defamatory allegations, their extensive publication and republication, the reputational harm to Unite, and the defendant's failure to engage or provide undertakings, an award of £50,000 general damages and a permanent injunction are necessary to vindicate Unite's reputation and prevent repetition.

Court Disposition

Claim allowed; summary judgment for claimant; remedies granted.

Orders

  • Defendant to pay £50,000 in general damages to claimant.
  • Permanent injunction restraining defendant from publishing the defamatory words or similar statements.