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M, Regina (on the Application of) v Hammersmith and Fulham: CA 5 Jul 2006

The court examined ‘a short but important point on the inter-relationship between the provisions of Part III of the Children Act 1989, headed ‘Local Authority Support for Children and Families’, and the homelessness provisions of Part VII of the Housing Act 1996, in particular sections 188 and 189, headed ‘Interim duty to accommodate”. Judges: Walll … Continue reading M, Regina (on the Application of) v Hammersmith and Fulham: CA 5 Jul 2006

North Yorkshire County Council v SA and others: CA 1 Jul 2003

The child was taken to hospital with injuries which the doctors concluded were non-accidental. The identity of the abuser was in doubt. Held: The court set out to identify the procedures in cases involving suspected non-accidental injuries where there was insufficient identification of the abuser. There are two parts to the threshold test, the harm … Continue reading North Yorkshire County Council v SA and others: CA 1 Jul 2003

Re C (A Child): FC 29 Sep 2015

There had been care proceedings as to C. The mother was treated by a psychiatrist, X, and an associate Y. They also prepared expert reports. M formally complained about X, and the charges having been dismissed, the doctors now sought disclosure of further medical recods from the care proceedings. His medical reputation had been severely … Continue reading Re C (A Child): FC 29 Sep 2015

Re Wilkinson: CA 15 Apr 2002

Citations: [2002] EWCA Civ 527 Links: Bailii Statutes: Contempt of Court Act 1981, Children Act 1989, Family Law Act 1986 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Contempt of Court Updated: 16 August 2022; Ref: scu.217119

A and B, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health: SC 14 Jun 2017

The court was asked: ‘Was it unlawful for the Secretary of State for Health, the respondent, who had power to make provisions for the functioning of the National Health Service in England, to have failed to make a provision which would have enabled women who were citizens of the UK, but who were usually resident … Continue reading A and B, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Health: SC 14 Jun 2017

North Yorkshire County Council v Wiltshire County Council: FD 1 Jun 1999

Where a child had returned to a district, and both parents and foster parents had also left the area, it was unrealistic to lay responsibility for the child’s care at the former authority, and the proper responsible authority was that within which the child now resided. Citations: Times 01-Jun-1999, Gazette 27-Jun-1999 Statutes: Children Act 1989 … Continue reading North Yorkshire County Council v Wiltshire County Council: FD 1 Jun 1999

French and others v Chief Constable of Sussex Police: CA 28 Mar 2006

The claimants sought damages for psychiatric injury. They were police officers who had been subject to unsuccessful proceedings following a shooting of a member of the public by their force. Held: The claim failed: ‘these claimants have no real prospect of establishing that it was reasonably foreseeable that the corporate failings would cause them psychiatric … Continue reading French and others v Chief Constable of Sussex Police: CA 28 Mar 2006

Coll, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 24 May 2017

The appellant female prisoner asserted that the much smaller number of probation and bail hostels provided for women prisoners when released on licence was discriminatory in leaving greater numbers of women far removed from their families. Held: A declaration was granted: ‘The provision of Approved Premises in England and Wales by the Secretary of State … Continue reading Coll, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: SC 24 May 2017

Nicklinson and Another, Regina (on The Application of): SC 25 Jun 2014

Criminality of Assisting Suicide not Infringing The court was asked: ‘whether the present state of the law of England and Wales relating to assisting suicide infringes the European Convention on Human Rights, and whether the code published by the Director of Public Prosecutions relating to prosecutions of those who are alleged to have assisted a … Continue reading Nicklinson and Another, Regina (on The Application of): SC 25 Jun 2014

Kennedy v The Charity Commission: SC 26 Mar 2014

The claimant journalist sought disclosure of papers acquired by the respondent in its conduct of enquiries into the charitable Mariam appeal. The Commission referred to an absolute exemption under section 32(2) of the 2000 Act, saying that the exemption continued until the papers were destroyed, or for 20 years under the 1958 Act. Held: The … Continue reading Kennedy v The Charity Commission: SC 26 Mar 2014

Airedale NHS Trust v Bland: HL 4 Feb 1993

Procedures on Withdrawal of Life Support Treatment The patient had been severely injured in the Hillsborough disaster, and had come to be in a persistent vegetative state (PVS). The doctors sought permission to withdraw medical treatment. The Official Solicitor appealed against an order of the Court of Appeal permitting the action. Held: The appeal failed. … Continue reading Airedale NHS Trust v Bland: HL 4 Feb 1993

AC, Regina (on the Application of) v Birmingham City Council: Admn 18 Nov 2008

Caim for judicial review brought by the mother of four children against a decision made by Birmingham City Council relating to payments to be made to her for both her benefit and that of the children, under provisions of the Children Act, in particular section 17, but also potentially section 20. The overall effect of … Continue reading AC, Regina (on the Application of) v Birmingham City Council: Admn 18 Nov 2008

E v Channel Four, News International Ltd and St Helens Borough Council: FD 1 Jun 2005

The applicant sought an order restraining publication by the defendants of material, saying she did not have capacity to consent to the publication. She suffered a multiple personality disorder. She did herself however clearly wish the film to be broadcast, and she wished to criticise her care. Held: An injunction was refused. ‘If Pamela has … Continue reading E v Channel Four, News International Ltd and St Helens Borough Council: FD 1 Jun 2005

ETS v BT; in re T (A child); In Re L (a child) (internal relocation: shared residence order: CA 28 Jan 2009

The mother appealed against a residence order granting the father equal time with the child, saying that she wished to move away. Held: Wall LJ examined the authorities.Wall LJ P said: ‘In twenty years time it will not matter a row of beans whether or not L spent x or y hours more with one … Continue reading ETS v BT; in re T (A child); In Re L (a child) (internal relocation: shared residence order: CA 28 Jan 2009

A, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Croydon: CA 18 Dec 2008

The court declined appeals against findings that local authorities through social workers could properly assess whether the claimants were under eighteen and entitled, though asylum seekers, to housing provision and support under the 1989 Act. Judges: Ward, maurice Kay LJJ, Sir John Chadwick Citations: [2008] EWCA Civ 1445, [2009] PTSR 1011, [2009] ACD 17, [2009] … Continue reading A, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Croydon: CA 18 Dec 2008

Birmingham City Council v S and others: FD 1 Dec 2006

Care proceedings had been issued in respect of A at birth. The father sought a decision as to whether the paternal parents could be informed of the birth. He was from a Muslim background and feared that if told at the wrong time they might reject A. Judges: Sumner J Citations: [2006] EWHC 3065 (Fam), … Continue reading Birmingham City Council v S and others: FD 1 Dec 2006

In Re C (A Minor) (Interim Care Order: Residential Assessment): HL 29 Nov 1996

The parents were suspected of causing the child non-accidental injury. The court wanted a residential assessment of the family, but the local authority refused, saying it would be too expensive, and would expose the child to continuing risk. The judge made an interim care order and gave an order for a residential assessment. The parents … Continue reading In Re C (A Minor) (Interim Care Order: Residential Assessment): HL 29 Nov 1996

Dacre and Another v City of Westminster Magistrates Court and others: Admn 16 Jul 2008

The claimants, a newspaper and its editor sought judicial review of a refusal to stay private prosecutions brought against them alleging breach of requirements that they not identify children involved in court proceedings, in this case those of the prosecutor. Held: This was ‘a clear case where the court’s conscience is offended by the fact … Continue reading Dacre and Another v City of Westminster Magistrates Court and others: Admn 16 Jul 2008

W, Regina (on the Application of) v North Lincolnshire Council: Admn 30 Jul 2008

W sought assistance from the Council. As a 17 year old without significant family support he had been released from custody and was entitled to admitted support under section 20 of the 1989 Act. Judges: Mackie QC J Citations: [2008] EWHC 2299 (Admin), [2008] 2 FLR 2150, [2008] Fam Law 1196 Links: Bailii Statutes: Children … Continue reading W, Regina (on the Application of) v North Lincolnshire Council: Admn 30 Jul 2008

M, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Barnet: Admn 6 Aug 2008

Challenge to the alleged ongoing refusal by the defendant to acknowledge its obligations to her under section 20 of the Children Act 1989 and therefore its alleged ongoing failure to comply with its obligations to her as a looked after, and therefore an eligible, child for the purposes of the leaving care provisions. Citations: [2008] … Continue reading M, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Barnet: Admn 6 Aug 2008

In re S (A Child): CA 12 Aug 2008

The mother of the child applied for leave to appeal against an order under section 38(9), seeking a residential assessment. Held: The judge had been exercising a discretion which he had done properly, and the court would not interfere with it. Judges: Mummery LJ, Wall LJ Citations: [2008] EWCA Civ 1078 Links: Bailii Statutes: Children … Continue reading In re S (A Child): CA 12 Aug 2008

C, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: CA 28 Jul 2008

The court was asked as to what methods of physical restraint were proper in institutions accommodating youths in custody. Held: The Court had been wrong not to quash the amended rules on the grounds of procedural breaches. The amended rules would have infringed the human rights of the children to whom such restraint was to … Continue reading C, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for Justice: CA 28 Jul 2008

In Re M (Residential Assessment Directions): FD 23 Sep 1998

When ordering a local authority to pay the costs of residential assessment of mother and child, the court should allow for these factors. It must be assessment not treatment, in long term interests of the child, to enable court to decide and not unreasonable. As to Re C: ‘ . . it does seem to … Continue reading In Re M (Residential Assessment Directions): FD 23 Sep 1998

In re B (A Child) (Prohibited Steps Order): CA 24 Jul 2007

The mother appealed against a refusal of an order allowing her to remove her son to live with her in Northern Ireland. Held: Thorpe LJ said that the relief appropriately to be sought by the objecting parent is a prohibited steps order. Judges: Thorpe, Lloyd, Toulson LJJ Citations: [2007] EWCA Civ 1055, [2008] Fam Law … Continue reading In re B (A Child) (Prohibited Steps Order): CA 24 Jul 2007

In re S (a Child) (Identification: Restrictions on Publication): HL 28 Oct 2004

Inherent High Court power may restrain Publicity The claimant child’s mother was to be tried for the murder of his brother by poisoning with salt. It was feared that the publicity which would normally attend a trial, would be damaging to S, and an application was made for reporting restrictions to be applied to avoid … Continue reading In re S (a Child) (Identification: Restrictions on Publication): HL 28 Oct 2004

Attorney-General v Leveller Magazine Ltd: HL 1 Feb 1979

The appellants were magazines and journalists who published, after committal proceedings, the name of a witness, a member of the security services, who had been referred to as Colonel B during the hearing. An order had been made for his name not to be disclosed during the hearing, but the court had had no power … Continue reading Attorney-General v Leveller Magazine Ltd: HL 1 Feb 1979

Kent County Council v G and others: HL 24 Nov 2005

A residential assessment order had been made under the 1989 Act in care proceedings. When the centre recommended a second extension of the assessment, the council refused, saying that the true purpose was not the assessment of the child but the treatment of the mother. Held: The appeal succeeded: ‘the main purpose of the proposed … Continue reading Kent County Council v G and others: HL 24 Nov 2005

S, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Sutton: CA 26 Jul 2007

The local authority owed the section 20(1) duty towards a 17 year old girl who was about to be released from a Secure Training Centre. It argued however that the duty no longer applied because she had agreed to go to a hostel for homeless women under the homelessness legislation, though also conceding that she … Continue reading S, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Sutton: CA 26 Jul 2007

British Broadcasting Corporation v CAFCASS Legal and others: FD 30 Mar 2007

Parents of a child had resisted care proceedings, and now wished the BBC to be able to make a TV programme about their case. They applied to the court for the judgment to be released. Applications were also made to have a police officer’s and medical staffs’ and social workers’ names to be excised. Held: … Continue reading British Broadcasting Corporation v CAFCASS Legal and others: FD 30 Mar 2007

L, Regina (on the Application of) v Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis: Admn 19 Mar 2006

The court considered the duties on the respondent in providing an enhanced criminal record certificate. In one case, the claimant had brought up her son who was made subject to child protection procedures for neglect. Her job involved supervising children at lunch time at a school. In the second case, a school head teacher had … Continue reading L, Regina (on the Application of) v Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis: Admn 19 Mar 2006

Desnousse v London Borough of Newham and others: CA 17 May 2006

The occupier had been granted a temporary licence by the authority under the homelessness provisions whilst it made its assessment. The assessment concluded that she had become homeless intentionally, and therefore terminated the licence and set out to evict her. She claimed that the authority had to get a court authority before so evicting her. … Continue reading Desnousse v London Borough of Newham and others: CA 17 May 2006

Regina v Davis (Iain); Regina v Ellis, Regina v Gregory, Regina v Simms, Regina v Martin: CACD 19 May 2006

The several defendants complained at the use at their trials of evidence given anonymously. The perceived need for anonymity arose because, from intimidation, the witnesses would not be willing to give their evidence without it. Held: The anonymity ruling did not prevent proper investigation with the witnesses in open court of the essential elements of … Continue reading Regina v Davis (Iain); Regina v Ellis, Regina v Gregory, Regina v Simms, Regina v Martin: CACD 19 May 2006

M, Regina (on the Application of) v Gateshead Council: CA 14 Mar 2006

The applicant had left care, but still received assistance. She was arrested and the police asked the attending social worker to arrange secure accommodation overnight. The respondent refused. The court was asked what duty (if any) is owed by local authorities to provide ‘secure accommodation’ for arrested juveniles whom they are requested to receive under … Continue reading M, Regina (on the Application of) v Gateshead Council: CA 14 Mar 2006

In Re R (Parental responsibility: IVF baby); D (A Child), Re: HL 12 May 2005

The parents had received IVF treatment together, but had separated before the child was born. The mother resisted an application by the father for a declaration of paternity. Held: The father’s appeal failed. The Act made statutory provision as to the parentage of a child born through IVF. The mere participation of the father and … Continue reading In Re R (Parental responsibility: IVF baby); D (A Child), Re: HL 12 May 2005

Regina ex parte Spink and Another v The London Borough of Wandsworth: CA 18 Mar 2005

The applicants had two severely disabled children. They sought assistance from the local authority in carrying out the necessary adaptations to their home. The authority asked first as to their financial circumstances. They declined, saying that any such consideration was not relevant to the decision. Held: The statutes were unclear, but the result was that … Continue reading Regina ex parte Spink and Another v The London Borough of Wandsworth: CA 18 Mar 2005

Secretary of State for the Home Department v SP: CA 21 Dec 2004

The applcant, a girl aged 17 was in a young offender institution. She complained that she had been removed to segregation without first giving her chance to be heard. The respondent argued that there were sufficient post decision safeguards to ensure fairness. Held: Modern standards of fairnesss required that she be given opportunity to be … Continue reading Secretary of State for the Home Department v SP: CA 21 Dec 2004

Morris, Regina (on the Application of) v Westminster City Council and Another: Admn 7 Oct 2004

The applicant questioned the compatibility of s185 of the 1996 Act with Human Rights law. The family sought emergency housing. The child of the family, found to be in priority housing need, was subject also to immigration control. Though the matter had been settled the court was invited to pursue the decision. Held: The Act … Continue reading Morris, Regina (on the Application of) v Westminster City Council and Another: Admn 7 Oct 2004

PNM v Times Newspapers Ltd and Others: SC 19 Jul 2017

No anonymity for investigation suspect The claimant had been investigated on an allegation of historic sexual abuse. He had never been charged, but the investigation had continued with others being convicted in a high profile case. He appealed from refusal of orders restricting publication of his name and involvement in the inquiry. Held: (Kerr and … Continue reading PNM v Times Newspapers Ltd and Others: SC 19 Jul 2017

Re H: CA 2002

Thorpe LJ said: ‘in weighing the rival claims of the biological parent over the psychological parent, the court must arrive at its choice on the application of the welfare test, the paramountcy test contained in s 1, having particular regard to the welfare checklist contained in s 1(3)’ Judges: Thorpe LJ Citations: [2002] 3 FCR … Continue reading Re H: CA 2002

Jennings v Buchanan: PC 14 Jul 2004

(New Zealand) (Attorney General of New Zealand intervening) The defendant MP had made a statement in Parliament which attracted parliamentary privilege. In a subsequent newspaper interview, he said ‘he did not resile from his claim’. He defended the action for defamation claiming the privilege. Held: The original statement had privilege but the repetition outside parliament … Continue reading Jennings v Buchanan: PC 14 Jul 2004

Pelling v Bruce-Williams, Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs intervening: CA 5 Jul 2004

The applicant sought an order that his application for a joint residence order should be held in public. Held: Though there was some attractiveness in the applicant’s arguments, the issue had been fully canvassed by the ECHR. The time had come for the court to consider in each case whether a proper balance of competing … Continue reading Pelling v Bruce-Williams, Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs intervening: CA 5 Jul 2004

Ali v The Head Teacher and Governors of Lord Grey School: CA 29 Mar 2004

The student had been unlawfully excluded from school. The school had not complied with the procedural requirements imposed by the Act. Held: Though the 1996 Act placed the responsibilty for exclusion upon the local authority, the head and school must also follow the rules. The duty on the local authority was a fallback duty. The … Continue reading Ali v The Head Teacher and Governors of Lord Grey School: CA 29 Mar 2004

Carson and Reynolds v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: CA 17 Jun 2003

The claimant Reynolds challenged the differential treatment by age of jobseeker’s allowance. Carson complained that as a foreign resident pensioner, her benefits had not been uprated. The questions in each case were whether the benefit affected a ‘possession’ within the Convention or the discrimination was arbitrary so as to breach the applicants human rights. Held: … Continue reading Carson and Reynolds v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: CA 17 Jun 2003

AHE Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust v A and Others (By Their Litigation Friend, the Official Solicitor), The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority B, B: QBD 26 Feb 2003

An IVF treatment centre used sperm from one couple to fertilise eggs from another. This was discovered, and the unwilling donors sought a paternity declaration. Held: Section 28 did not confer paternity. The mistake vitiated whatever consents had been given, and the concept under the Act of ‘treatment together’. Any interference with the right to … Continue reading AHE Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust v A and Others (By Their Litigation Friend, the Official Solicitor), The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority B, B: QBD 26 Feb 2003

A Health Authority v Dr X and Others: CA 21 Dec 2001

Where, after a children case has been heard, a party wishes to apply for the release of papers, the application should be made before the judge who had heard the case. To do otherwise left the second judge making a difficult assessment with insufficient direct knowledge of the issues and people involved. Judges: Lord Justice … Continue reading A Health Authority v Dr X and Others: CA 21 Dec 2001

Regina (Amicus etc) v Secretary of State for Trade and Industry: Admn 26 Apr 2004

The claimants sought a declaration that part of the Regulations were invalid, and an infringement of their human rights. The Regulations sought to exempt church schools from an obligation not to discriminate against homosexual teachers. Held: The Regulation was within the scope of the Directive. Though a member state had some freedom in implementing a … Continue reading Regina (Amicus etc) v Secretary of State for Trade and Industry: Admn 26 Apr 2004

Lancashire County Council and Another v B and Others; Lancashire County Council v A: HL 16 Mar 2000

A seven month old child had been injured, but it was not possible to establish whether this had taken place whilst with her parents or with a child minder. The Council brought care proceedings also for the minder’s own child B. Held: Even though the parents could not be held responsible, the threshold conditions which … Continue reading Lancashire County Council and Another v B and Others; Lancashire County Council v A: HL 16 Mar 2000

Bryant v Housing Corporation: CA 21 May 1998

A complainant before an industrial tribunal will only be allowed to amend her statement in order to add an allegation of victimisation for sex discrimination where this arises naturally from the facts alleged. In this case the new claim was rather more than an amendment and amounted to a substitution of a new claim which … Continue reading Bryant v Housing Corporation: CA 21 May 1998

M v M: 1995

The court considered the consequences of mis-disclosure in ancillary relief proceedings. Thorpe J said: ‘Conduct is only relevant in so far as the wife relies upon the manner in which the husband has conducted these proceedings. Ordinarily speaking, it seems to me that the manner in which proceedings are misconducted is to be reflected in … Continue reading M v M: 1995

Kelly (A Minor) v British Broadcasting Corporation: FD 25 Jul 2000

K, aged 16, had left home to join what was said to be a religious sect. His whereabouts were unknown. He had been made a ward of court and the Official Solicitor was appointed to represent his interests. He had sent messages to say that he was well and did not wish to return. The … Continue reading Kelly (A Minor) v British Broadcasting Corporation: FD 25 Jul 2000

Re C and B (Care Order: Future Harm): CA 2001

Hale LJ said that ‘a comparatively small risk of really serious harm can justify action, while even the virtual certainty of slight harm might not’. Judges: Hale LJ Citations: [2001] 1 FLR 611 Statutes: Children Act 1989 31(2) Jurisdiction: England and Wales Cited by: Cited – Plymouth City Council v HM Coroner for the County … Continue reading Re C and B (Care Order: Future Harm): CA 2001

D, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 28 Apr 2005

D was undergoing trial for offences and was held in prison. He self-harmed repeatedly, and was recorded to require extra vigilance. He attempted to hang himself. Prison staff saved his life, but he was left paraplegic, and was then detained under the 1983 Act. An internal prison report which contained the substantial record of the … Continue reading D, Regina (on the Application of) v Secretary of State for the Home Department: Admn 28 Apr 2005

Pickering v Liverpool Daily Post and Echo Newspapers plc: HL 1991

Damages were awarded for a breach of statutory duty where the claimant had suffered loss or damage by reason of the breach. The publication at issue went beyond reporting and ‘it reached deeply into the substance of the matter which the court had closed its doors to consider’. A mental health review tribunal is a … Continue reading Pickering v Liverpool Daily Post and Echo Newspapers plc: HL 1991

In Re R (A Child) (Care Proceedings: Disclosure): CA 18 Jul 2000

A guardian ad litem, representing one child, was entitled to see a report, prepared by the child protection committee of the local authority, which related to the death of the child’s sibling. Such a report constituted a report prepared by the authority whilst exercising a statutory function assigned to it. No question of policy could … Continue reading In Re R (A Child) (Care Proceedings: Disclosure): CA 18 Jul 2000

Gloucestershire County Council v P (A Minor) and Others: CA 19 May 1999

A judge may make a residence order of his own motion, in exceptional and clear circumstances, so as to give residence to a person who was debarred themselves, from applying for such an order. There is no explicit statutory restriction preventing a judge from making such an order. Where there is a reported decision on … Continue reading Gloucestershire County Council v P (A Minor) and Others: CA 19 May 1999

Douglas v North Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council: CA 19 Dec 2003

The applicant had sought a student loan to support his studies as a mature student. It was refused because he would be over 55 at the date of the commencement of the course. He claimed this was discriminatory. Held: The Convention required the state not to prevent access to education, not a duty to subsidise … Continue reading Douglas v North Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council: CA 19 Dec 2003

Associated Provincial Picture Houses Ltd v Wednesbury Corporation: CA 10 Nov 1947

Administrative Discretion to be Used Reasonably The applicant challenged the manner of decision making as to the conditions which had been attached to its licence to open the cinema on Sundays. It had not been allowed to admit children under 15 years of age. The statute provided no appeal procedure, and the applicant sought a … Continue reading Associated Provincial Picture Houses Ltd v Wednesbury Corporation: CA 10 Nov 1947

Gray v Thames Trains and Others: HL 17 Jun 2009

The claimant suffered psychiatric injury in a rail crash caused by the defendant’s negligence. Under this condition of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, the claimant had later gone on to kill another person, and he had been detained under section 41. He now sought damages for his loss of earnings through detention in prison and mental hospital. … Continue reading Gray v Thames Trains and Others: HL 17 Jun 2009

B County Council v L and Others: FD 2002

Whilst under assessment before consideration of a final order, the mother said she had hurt her older child. The hospital was unable to provide 24 hour supervision, and the assessment was terminated. The parents sought an order for an assessment at an alternative hospital. Held: If the assessment was necessary, it was not correct to … Continue reading B County Council v L and Others: FD 2002

In Re B (A Minor) (Wardship: Medical Treatment): CA 1981

The child was born with Down’s Syndrome and an intestinal blockage. She needed the obstruction to be relieved if she was to survive. If the operation were performed, the child might die within a few months but it was probable that her life expectancy would be 20-30 years. Her parents, having decided that it would … Continue reading In Re B (A Minor) (Wardship: Medical Treatment): CA 1981

Wilson v Secretary of State for Trade and Industry; Wilson v First County Trust Ltd (No 2): HL 10 Jul 2003

The respondent appealed against a finding that the provision which made a loan agreement completely invalid for lack of compliance with the 1974 Act was itself invalid under the Human Rights Act since it deprived the respondent lender of its property rights. It was also argued that it was not possible to make a declaration … Continue reading Wilson v Secretary of State for Trade and Industry; Wilson v First County Trust Ltd (No 2): HL 10 Jul 2003

Osman v The United Kingdom: ECHR 28 Oct 1998

Police’s Complete Immunity was Too Wide (Grand Chamber) A male teacher developed an obsession with a male pupil. He changed his name by deed poll to the pupil’s surname. He was required to teach at another school. The pupil’s family’s property was subjected to numerous acts of vandalism, which the police investigated and in respect … Continue reading Osman v The United Kingdom: ECHR 28 Oct 1998

In re Y and K (Minors) (Split hearing: Evidence): CA 7 Apr 2003

In a ‘split trial’ procedure under the Act, it was wrong to bring in rules from criminal procedures. A witness who was competent was also compellable. Dicta in In re B were made without reference to section 98. Judges: Hale, Thorpe LJJ Citations: Times 18-Apr-2003 Statutes: Children Act 1989 31 98 Jurisdiction: England and Wales … Continue reading In re Y and K (Minors) (Split hearing: Evidence): CA 7 Apr 2003

Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis v Reeves (Joint Administratix of The Estate of Martin Lynch, Deceased): HL 15 Jul 1999

The deceased was a prisoner known to be at risk of committing suicide. Whilst in police custody he hanged himself in his prison cell. The Commissioner accepted that he was in breach of his duty of care to the deceased, but not that that breach was caustive of the death by suicide. Held: Police and … Continue reading Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis v Reeves (Joint Administratix of The Estate of Martin Lynch, Deceased): HL 15 Jul 1999

Caparo Industries Plc v Dickman and others: HL 8 Feb 1990

Limitation of Loss from Negligent Mis-statement The plaintiffs sought damages from accountants for negligence. They had acquired shares in a target company and, relying upon the published and audited accounts which overstated the company’s earnings, they purchased further shares. Held: The duties of an auditor are founded in contract and the extent of the duties … Continue reading Caparo Industries Plc v Dickman and others: HL 8 Feb 1990

Corr v IBC Vehicles Ltd: CA 31 Mar 2006

The deceased had suffered a head injury whilst working for the defendant. In addition to severe physical consequences he suffered post-traumatic stress, became more and more depressed, and then committed suicide six years later. The claimant appealed against refusal of an award under the 1976 Act. The judge had decided that it was not part … Continue reading Corr v IBC Vehicles Ltd: CA 31 Mar 2006

In re D (A Child): SC 26 Sep 2019

D, a young adult had a mild learning disability and other more serious conditions. He was taken into a hospital providing mental health services. The external door was locked, and a declaration was sought to permit this deprivation of his liberty, and whether his parents could give consent for it. Held: (LL Carnwath and Lloyd-Jones … Continue reading In re D (A Child): SC 26 Sep 2019

Lewis v Daily Telegraph Ltd: HL 1964

Ascertaining Meaning of Words for Defamation The Daily Telegraph had published an article headed ‘Inquiry on Firm by City Police’ and the Daily Mail had published an article headed ‘Fraud Squad Probe Firm’. The plaintiffs claimed that those articles carried the meaning that they were guilty of fraud. The defendants admitted that the articles were … Continue reading Lewis v Daily Telegraph Ltd: HL 1964

Samuels v Birmingham City Council: SC 12 Jun 2019

The appellant had been provided with emergency accommodation after losing her assured shorthold tenancy, but the court was now asked ‘whether the council adopted the correct approach in determining that the accommodation was ‘affordable’ for those purposes.’ Held: Her appeal was granted. The 1996 Order requires the authority to take into account all sources of … Continue reading Samuels v Birmingham City Council: SC 12 Jun 2019

Brooks v Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

The claimant was with Stephen Lawrence when they were both attacked and Mr Lawrence killed. He claimed damages for the negligent way the police had dealt with his case, and particularly said that they had failed to assess him as a victim of crime, had failed to provide him with reasonable assistance and support, and … Continue reading Brooks v Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

Regina v London Borough of Barnet ex parte G; Regina v London Borough of Lambeth ex parte W; Regina v London Borough of Lambeth ex parte A: HL 23 Oct 2003

The applicants sought to oblige the local authority, in compliance with its duties under the 1989 Act, to provide a home for children, and where necessary an accompanying adult. Held: There were four hurdles for the applicants to cross. They must show that their children are children in need within the meaning of section 17(10). … Continue reading Regina v London Borough of Barnet ex parte G; Regina v London Borough of Lambeth ex parte W; Regina v London Borough of Lambeth ex parte A: HL 23 Oct 2003

Spring v Guardian Assurance Plc and Others: HL 7 Jul 1994

The plaintiff, who worked in financial services, complained of the terms of the reference given by his former employer. Having spoken of his behaviour towards members of the team, it went on: ‘his former superior has further stated he is a man of little or no integrity and could not be regarded as honest . … Continue reading Spring v Guardian Assurance Plc and Others: HL 7 Jul 1994

Robinson v Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police: SC 8 Feb 2018

Limits to Police Exemption from Liability The claimant, an elderly lady was bowled over and injured when police were chasing a suspect through the streets. As they arrested him they fell over on top of her. She appealed against refusal of her claim in negligence. Held: Her appeal succeeded. It is normally only in a … Continue reading Robinson v Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police: SC 8 Feb 2018

JD v East Berkshire Community Health NHS Trust and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

Parents of children had falsely and negligently been accused of abusing their children. The children sought damages for negligence against the doctors or social workers who had made the statements supporting the actions taken. The House was asked if the suffering of psychiatric injury by the parent was a foreseeable result of making it and … Continue reading JD v East Berkshire Community Health NHS Trust and others: HL 21 Apr 2005

HM Customs and Excise v Barclays Bank Plc: HL 21 Jun 2006

The claimant had served an asset freezing order on the bank in respect of one of its customers. The bank paid out on a cheque inadvertently as to the order. The Commissioners claimed against the bank in negligence. The bank denied any duty of care. Held: The bank’s appeal succeeded. The bank owed a duty … Continue reading HM Customs and Excise v Barclays Bank Plc: HL 21 Jun 2006

SG and Others, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: SC 18 Mar 2015

The court was asked whether it was lawful for the Secretary of State to make subordinate legislation imposing a cap on the amount of welfare benefits which can be received by claimants in non-working households, equivalent to the net median earnings of working households. The challenge was under the 1998 Act on the basis that … Continue reading SG and Others, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: SC 18 Mar 2015

M and Another, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Lambeth and others: Admn 20 Jun 2008

The claimant had arrived from Afhganistan and sought asylum and accomodation as a child. The social worker involved assessed him to be an adult. Held: The decision was within the duties of the local authorities. Judges: Bennett J Citations: [2008] EWHC 1364 (Admin) Links: Bailii Statutes: European Convention on Human Rights 6 8, Children Act … Continue reading M and Another, Regina (on the Application of) v London Borough of Lambeth and others: Admn 20 Jun 2008

AXA General Insurance Ltd and Others v Lord Advocate and Others: SC 12 Oct 2011

Standing to Claim under A1P1 ECHR The appellants had written employers’ liability insurance policies. They appealed against rejection of their challenge to the 2009 Act which provided that asymptomatic pleural plaques, pleural thickening and asbestosis should constitute actionable harm for the purposes of an action of damages for personal injury. Held: The insurers’ appeals failed. … Continue reading AXA General Insurance Ltd and Others v Lord Advocate and Others: SC 12 Oct 2011

HH v Deputy Prosecutor of The Italian Republic, Genoa: SC 20 Jun 2012

In each case the defendant sought to resist European Extradition Warrants saying that an order would be a disporportionate interference in their human right to family life. The Court asked whether its approach as set out in Norris, had to be amended in the light of the case of ZH. Held: HH and PH’s appeals … Continue reading HH v Deputy Prosecutor of The Italian Republic, Genoa: SC 20 Jun 2012

DA and Others, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: SC 15 May 2019

Several lone parents challenged the benefits cap, saying that it was discriminatory. Held: (Hale, Kerr LL dissenting) The parents’ appeals failed. The legislation had a clear impact on lone parents and their children. The intention was to encourage claimants back into work. It was said that thus contradicted the other policy of providing no free … Continue reading DA and Others, Regina (on The Application of) v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: SC 15 May 2019

ZH (Tanzania) v Secretary of State for The Home Department: SC 1 Feb 2011

The respondent had arrived and claimed asylum. Three claims were rejected, two of which were fraudulent. She had two children by a UK citizen, and if deported the result would be (the father being unsuitable) that the children would have to return with her. Held: The mother’s appeal succeeded. The court had to consider the … Continue reading ZH (Tanzania) v Secretary of State for The Home Department: SC 1 Feb 2011

Vedanta Resources Plc and Another v Lungowe and Others: SC 10 Apr 2019

The claimants alleged negligence causing them personal injury and other losses arising from pollution from mining operations of the defendants in Zambia. The company denied jurisdiction. In the Court of Appeal the defendants’ appeals were dismissed. Held: The appeals failed save that the UK was not the proper jurisdiction to bring the case. The claim … Continue reading Vedanta Resources Plc and Another v Lungowe and Others: SC 10 Apr 2019

U v W (Attorney-General Intervening): FD 4 Mar 1997

The restriction on the freedom to provide human fertility treatment to licensees of the Authority was not a breach of the EU treaty. There is a particular need for certainty in provisions affecting the status of a child. There is a mental element inherent in the notion of ‘treatment together’ and if the respondent had … Continue reading U v W (Attorney-General Intervening): FD 4 Mar 1997

In re McKerr (Northern Ireland): HL 11 Mar 2004

The deceased had been shot by soldiers of the British Army whilst in a car in Northern Ireland. The car was alleged to have ‘run’ a checkpoint. The claimants said the investigation, now 20 years ago, had been inadequate. The claim was brought under human rights law, but predated by many years the incorporation of … Continue reading In re McKerr (Northern Ireland): HL 11 Mar 2004

McCann and Others v The United Kingdom: ECHR 6 Oct 1995

Wrong assumptions made by police officers in the killing of terrorists amounted to a human rights breach, despite the existence of danger to the public of an imminent attack. Article 2(1) is ‘one of the most fundamental provisions in the Convention’. It would have been incumbent on the state to conduct a ‘thorough, impartial and … Continue reading McCann and Others v The United Kingdom: ECHR 6 Oct 1995