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In re P (a minor by his mother and litigation friend); P v National Association of Schoolmasters/Union of Women Teachers: HL 27 Feb 2003

The pupil had been excluded from school but then ordered to be re-instated. The teachers, through their union, refused to teach him claiming that he was disruptive. The claimant appealed a refusal of an injunction. The injunction had been refused on the basis that this was an employment dispute. The union had failed successfully to … Continue reading In re P (a minor by his mother and litigation friend); P v National Association of Schoolmasters/Union of Women Teachers: HL 27 Feb 2003

Grundy and Co Excavations Ltd and Another, Regina (on the Application of) v Halton Division Magistrates Court: Admn 24 Feb 2003

A reverse legal burden applied to defendants accused of an offence under section 17 of the Forestry Act 1967 which, in specified circumstances, created an absolute offence of felling a tree without a felling licence. Clarke LJ said: ‘It is thus clear that, while the general principles are those set out in Edwards, each case … Continue reading Grundy and Co Excavations Ltd and Another, Regina (on the Application of) v Halton Division Magistrates Court: Admn 24 Feb 2003

Gregory and Gregory v Turner, Turner; Regina (Morris) v North Somerset Council: CA 19 Feb 2003

The parties were involved in a boundary dispute. One granted an enduring power of attorney, and sought to appear as a litigant in person through the power. Held: The right of a litigant in person to represent himself was a personal right, and as such was not capable of being delegated. The Act created a … Continue reading Gregory and Gregory v Turner, Turner; Regina (Morris) v North Somerset Council: CA 19 Feb 2003

Bertrand Roberts and Roland Roberts v The State: PC 15 Jan 2003

PC (Trinidad and Tobago) The appellants had been convicted of murder and their capital sentences commuted. They now sought to challenge the convictions as to the admission of and directions given on the identification evidence. However the judge’s notes had been lost, and there remained no direct evidence as to the form of any misdirection. … Continue reading Bertrand Roberts and Roland Roberts v The State: PC 15 Jan 2003

Clark (Procurator Fiscal, Kirkcaldy) v Kelly: PC 11 Feb 2003

PC (The High Court of Justiciary) The minuter challenged the role of the legal adviser to the district courts in Scotland, and as to his independence. Held: The legal adviser was not subject to the same system of appointments as the justices. However the system provided for a right of appeal (section 175) on questions … Continue reading Clark (Procurator Fiscal, Kirkcaldy) v Kelly: PC 11 Feb 2003

Regina (on the Application of Redgrave) v The Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis: CA 22 Jan 2003

The police officer had been accused of an offence. The case was discharged under the section at committal. The Commissioner sought to commence disciplinary proceedings on the same evidence. Held: The tests of the two sets of hearings were different. The magistrates had been asked to see whether there was sufficient evidence to justify putting … Continue reading Regina (on the Application of Redgrave) v The Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis: CA 22 Jan 2003

In re Kanaris (application for a writ of Habeas Corpus): HL 30 Jan 2003

The defendant faced charges with others on the same indictment. The judge called a preparatory hearing under the 1996 Act, against the others, but held a separate hearing for the defendant, at which he held a similar preparatory hearing for him alone. The defendant now complained that a separate hearing could not be held for … Continue reading In re Kanaris (application for a writ of Habeas Corpus): HL 30 Jan 2003

Regina (Factortame Ltd and Others) v Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (No 8): CA 3 Jul 2002

A firm of accountants had agreed to provide their services as experts in a case on the basis that they would be paid by taking part of any damages awarded. The respondent claimed that such an agreement was champertous and unlawful. Held: The tort of champerty as such had been abolished, but the rule remained … Continue reading Regina (Factortame Ltd and Others) v Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (No 8): CA 3 Jul 2002

O’Neill v Her Majesty’s Advocate: HCJ 9 Mar 1999

The appellant pleaded guilty to an assault with a knife upon a stranger. He had a previous conviction for assault causing severe injury and permanent disfigurement, and two previous convictions for inter alia attempted murder and assault. He had committed the offence libelled while on licence from a sentence imposed for an offence that he … Continue reading O’Neill v Her Majesty’s Advocate: HCJ 9 Mar 1999

Dougbar Properties Ltd v Keeper of the Registers of Scotland: SCS 9 Feb 1999

Even if there existed an acknowledged error in the Land Registry, rectification was the only available remedy. The existence of an inaccuracy did not alter the legal reality that the registered proprietor had a right created by registration. In certain circumstances a unilateral error by the Keeper could be the subject of rectification. Judges: Lord … Continue reading Dougbar Properties Ltd v Keeper of the Registers of Scotland: SCS 9 Feb 1999

REFCO Capital Markets Ltd and Another v Eastern Trading Co, Credit Suisse (First Boston) Ltd and Another: CA 17 Jun 1998

An application for Mareva relief was granted under s.25 where proceedings were pending in the US against Lebanese defendants arising out of futures transactions with respect of assets in England. On the application to discharge the order, the lower court held that, in view of the risk of asset dissipation, the merits was for the … Continue reading REFCO Capital Markets Ltd and Another v Eastern Trading Co, Credit Suisse (First Boston) Ltd and Another: CA 17 Jun 1998

D v The United Kingdom: ECHR 2 May 1997

The applicant, an AIDS sufferer, resisted his removal to St Kitts where lack of medical treatment would hasten his death. Held: The deportation of a convicted person suffering from Aids to a country with less care facilities was inhuman or degrading treatment. ‘In its Vilvarajah and Others judgment and its Soering judgment the Court considered … Continue reading D v The United Kingdom: ECHR 2 May 1997

Wingrove v The United Kingdom: ECHR 25 Nov 1996

The applicant had been refused a certification certificate for his video ‘Visions of Ecstasy’ on the basis that it infringed the criminal law of blasphemy. The Court found that the offence was prescribed by law and served the legitimate aim of protecting the rights of others. Held: The provision of a system which would allow … Continue reading Wingrove v The United Kingdom: ECHR 25 Nov 1996

Stubbings and Others v The United Kingdom: ECHR 22 Oct 1996

There was no human rights breach where the victims of sex abuse had been refused a right to sue for damages out of time. The question is whether and to what extent differences in otherwise similar situations justify a different treatment in law: ‘Limitation periods in personal injury cases are a common feature of the … Continue reading Stubbings and Others v The United Kingdom: ECHR 22 Oct 1996

Bryan v The United Kingdom: ECHR 22 Nov 1995

Bryan was a farmer at Warrington in Cheshire. He built two brick buildings on land in a conservation area without planning permission and the planning authority served an enforcement notice for their demolition. He appealed on grounds (a) (that planning permission should be granted), (b) (that there had been no breach of planning control) and … Continue reading Bryan v The United Kingdom: ECHR 22 Nov 1995

Edwards v The United Kingdom: ECHR 16 Dec 1992

The fact that the elderly victim of the robbery of which the defendant had been convicted had failed to pick out Mr Edwards when she was shown two volumes of photographs of possible burglars which included his photograph was not disclosed to the defence. One of the police witnesses said that no fingerprints were found … Continue reading Edwards v The United Kingdom: ECHR 16 Dec 1992

Pfeifer And Plankl v Austria: ECHR 25 Feb 1992

Two of the judges who had acted in Mr Pfeifer’s case also presided at his trial, despite a clear provision of the Code of Criminal Procedure disqualifying them. The Commission dealt with whether the court was ‘established by law’ separately from whether it was ‘impartial’ and held that it was not. The Court held that … Continue reading Pfeifer And Plankl v Austria: ECHR 25 Feb 1992

Thynne, Wilson and Gunnell v The United Kingdom: ECHR 25 Oct 1990

The applicants, discretionary life prisoners, complained of a violation on the ground that they were not able to have the continued lawfulness of their detention decided by a court at reasonable intervals throughout their imprisonment. Held: A discretionary life sentence in English law was composed of a punitive element followed by a security element giving … Continue reading Thynne, Wilson and Gunnell v The United Kingdom: ECHR 25 Oct 1990

Starrs and Chalmers and Bill of Advocattion for Procurator Fiscal, Linlithgow v Procurator Fiscal, Linlithgow and Hugh Latta Starrs and James Wilson Chalmers; Starrs v Ruxton, Ruxton v Starrs: ScHC 11 Nov 1999

The system in Scotland whereby lesser judges were appointed by the executive, for a year at a time, and could be discharged without explanation or challenge, meant that they could be seen not to be independent, and the system was a breach of the right to a fair trial by an independent judiciary. There was … Continue reading Starrs and Chalmers and Bill of Advocattion for Procurator Fiscal, Linlithgow v Procurator Fiscal, Linlithgow and Hugh Latta Starrs and James Wilson Chalmers; Starrs v Ruxton, Ruxton v Starrs: ScHC 11 Nov 1999

P v S and Cornwall County Council: ECJ 30 Apr 1996

An employee at an educational establishment told management that he intended to undergo gender reassignment. He was given notice of dismissal. Held: The scope of the Directive was not confined to discrimination based on the fact that a person was of one or other sex but also extended to discrimination arising from the gender reassignment … Continue reading P v S and Cornwall County Council: ECJ 30 Apr 1996

Lloyd’s Register of Shipping v Societe Campenon Bernard: ECJ 6 Apr 1995

Actions which would be deemed to have been undertaken by a branch of company need not necessarily be performed where the branch is physically located. Citations: Times 03-May-1995, C-439/93, [1995] EUECJ C-439/93 Links: Bailii Statutes: Brussels Convention1968 5(5) Cited by: Cited – Anton Durbeck GmbH v Den Norske Bank ASA CA 3-Feb-2003 Claimant cargo owners … Continue reading Lloyd’s Register of Shipping v Societe Campenon Bernard: ECJ 6 Apr 1995

Reichert and Kockler v Dresdner Bank: ECJ 26 Mar 1992

The case concerned article 16(5) of the Brussels Convention, among other articles. Held: It is necessary to take account of the fact that the essential purpose of the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of the place in which the judgment has been or is to be enforced is that it is only for the courts … Continue reading Reichert and Kockler v Dresdner Bank: ECJ 26 Mar 1992

Foster and others v British Gas plc: ECJ 12 Jul 1990

The defendants (BGC) were nationalised suppliers of gas. BGC was by statute a body with a legal persona operating under the supervision of the authorities. Its members were appointed by the Secretary of State, who also determined their remuneration. The statutory objective set was the development and maintenance of an efficient, co-ordinated and economical supply … Continue reading Foster and others v British Gas plc: ECJ 12 Jul 1990

De Freitas v The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Lands and Housing and others: PC 30 Jun 1998

(Antigua and Barbuda) The applicant was employed as a civil servant. He joined a demonstration alleging corruption in a minister. It was alleged he had infringed his duties as a civil servant, and he replied that the constitution allowed him to speak out. Held: The demonstration did contravene the restriction on publishing his views. Analogies … Continue reading De Freitas v The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Lands and Housing and others: PC 30 Jun 1998

Gibbs and others v Rea: PC 29 Jan 1998

(Cayman Islands) The respondent worked for a bank. He disclosed a business interest, but that interest grew in importance to the point where he resigned in circumstances amounting to constructive dismissal. His home and business officers were raided and searched by the police. Nothing incriminating was found. He claimed damages saying the search warrrant had … Continue reading Gibbs and others v Rea: PC 29 Jan 1998

Grovit and others v Doctor and others: HL 24 Apr 1997

The plaintiff began a defamation action against seven defendants. Each had admitted publication but pleaded justification. The claims against the fourth to seventh defendants were dismissed by consent, and the third had gone into liquidation. The remaining two defendants, acting in person, applied for the action to be struck-out for want of prosecution. The plaintiff’s … Continue reading Grovit and others v Doctor and others: HL 24 Apr 1997

R E Brown and others v GIO Insurance Limited: CA 6 Feb 1998

A reinsurance contact provided for an excess and limit of liability to be calculated on the basis of ‘each and every loss and/or series of losses arising out of one event.’ It also provided that ‘The Reassured shall be the sole judge as to what constitutes each and every loss and/or one event’. Held: Where … Continue reading R E Brown and others v GIO Insurance Limited: CA 6 Feb 1998

Regina v Corby Justices ex parte Agnes Mort: Admn 9 Mar 1998

Justices clerks are permitted to question fine defaulters as to their ability to pay, but must do so under enquiry without bias, and not as a prosecutor. A warrant for arrest for non-pyment of a fine was neither civil nor criminal in character, but in a category of its own. Citations: Times 13-Mar-1998, [1998] EWHC … Continue reading Regina v Corby Justices ex parte Agnes Mort: Admn 9 Mar 1998

Commissioners of Inland Revenue v McGuckian: HL 21 May 1997

Steps which had been inserted into a commercial transaction, but which had no purpose other than the saving of tax are to be disregarded when assessing the tax effect of the scheme. The modern approach to statutory construction is to have regard to the purpose of a particular provision and interpret its language, so far … Continue reading Commissioners of Inland Revenue v McGuckian: HL 21 May 1997

Archibald v Fife Council: IHCS 9 Dec 2003

The applicant was a roadsweeper. She complained of disability discrimination, when after becoming unable to walk, her employer after considering her for other posts dismissed her for incapacity. Held: The ability to walk was a part of the irreducible minimum capacity required of the job. The Code of Practice could not be used as an … Continue reading Archibald v Fife Council: IHCS 9 Dec 2003

Tolstoy Miloslavsky v United Kingdom: ECHR 19 Jul 1995

The applicant had been required to pay andpound;124,900 as security for the respondent’s costs as a condition of his appeal against an award of damages in a defamation case. Held: It followed from established case law that article 6(1) did not guarantee a right of appeal. It was not disputed that the security for costs … Continue reading Tolstoy Miloslavsky v United Kingdom: ECHR 19 Jul 1995

Preston and Others v Wolverhampton Healthcare NHS and Others; Fletcher and Others v Midland Bank Plc: HL 26 Feb 1998

‘Employment’ in context of a sex discrimination claim referred to a current employment contract even in context of there having been a series of repeated contracts of employment. The question was referred to the European Court of Justice. Judges: Lord Slynn of Hadley, Lord Goff of Chieveley Lord Nolan Lord Hope of Craighead Lord Clyde … Continue reading Preston and Others v Wolverhampton Healthcare NHS and Others; Fletcher and Others v Midland Bank Plc: HL 26 Feb 1998

Jersild v Denmark: ECHR 20 Oct 1994

A journalist was wrongly convicted himself of spreading racial hatred by quoting racists in his material. Held: Freedom of expression is one of the essential foundations of a democratic society. The safeguards to be afforded to the press are of particular importance. ‘Whilst the press must not overstep the bounds set, inter alia, in the … Continue reading Jersild v Denmark: ECHR 20 Oct 1994

Regina v Ministry of Defence Ex Parte Smith and Others: QBD 7 Jun 1995

An MOD ban on employing homosexuals was not Wednesbury unreasonable, even though it might be out of date. Pannick (counsel for the applicant, approved): ‘The court may not interfere with the exercise of an administrative discretion on substantive grounds save where the court is satisfied that the decision is unreasonable in the sense that it … Continue reading Regina v Ministry of Defence Ex Parte Smith and Others: QBD 7 Jun 1995

In Re R (Wardship: Restrictions on Publication): CA 1994

The parents had separated and the child made a ward of court. The mother had care and control and the father had access. The father abducted the child to Israel but she was recovered. The father was extradited to stand trial here. He sought publicity for his views upon the treatment of fathers by the … Continue reading In Re R (Wardship: Restrictions on Publication): CA 1994

Roberton v Roberton: 1999

Citations: 1999 SLT 38 Statutes: Matrimonial Homes (Family Protection) (Scotland) Act 1991 1 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Cited by: Cited – Glasgow City Council v DH and Another IHCS 17-Jul-2003 Exclusion orders had been sought under the Act, but refused for non-compliance with procedures under the Act. New applications were made to different courts, and … Continue reading Roberton v Roberton: 1999

Regina v Neal, Hood: CACD 28 Nov 2003

The defendants appealed sentence for having been involved in the large scale importation of cigarettes evading customs duty. Held: The judge had paid proper attention to Dosanjh. Having regard also to Czyzewski, the sentences were within the guidelines and the appeal was refused. Judges: Lord Justice Potter Mr Justice Cresswell Mr Justice Jack Citations: [2003] … Continue reading Regina v Neal, Hood: CACD 28 Nov 2003

Schiffahrtsgesellschaft Detlev von Appen GmbH v Voest Alpine Intertrading GmbH (‘The Jay Bola’): CA 1997

The insurance company claimant had insured a cargo under a voyage charter made by the defendant as charterer with the claimant as time charterer and disponent owner of the vessel. The charter had an arbitration clause. The cargo was damaged in a fire and steps taken to extinguish it. The insurers began proceedings in Brazil … Continue reading Schiffahrtsgesellschaft Detlev von Appen GmbH v Voest Alpine Intertrading GmbH (‘The Jay Bola’): CA 1997

Regina v Monopolies and Mergers Commission, ex parte South Yorkshire Transport Ltd: HL 1993

One bus company took over another, giving it an effective monopoly within the region. The Commission considered that the area involved was sufficiently substantial to cause concern that it may operate against the public interest. At first instance the judge held the area was not sufficiently large to justify a concern. On appeal the case … Continue reading Regina v Monopolies and Mergers Commission, ex parte South Yorkshire Transport Ltd: HL 1993

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

Regina v October: CACD 27 Feb 2003

The court had adjourned its proceedings in the absence of the defendant, so as not to fall foul of the requirement that a confiscation inquiry must take place within six months of conviction. The defendant appealed. Held: The court could exercise its common law power to adjourn. The statutory power could only be exercised where … Continue reading Regina v October: CACD 27 Feb 2003

Lonrho Plc v Fayed and Others (No 4 ): CA 27 Oct 1993

Public interest immunity does not attach to documents in the hands of a taxpayer and his advisers. They are not in any event discloseable. (Bingham) ‘a claim made by the revenue to withhold documents relating to a taxpayer’s tax affairs from production without his consent is properly to be regarded as a claim for public … Continue reading Lonrho Plc v Fayed and Others (No 4 ): CA 27 Oct 1993

Cooke, Sheppard, Page v United Bristol Health Care, Stibbe and Another, Lee: CA 16 Oct 2003

The claimant appealed against his damages award, saying that it should have allowed for the anticipated rises in the cost of providing his care in the future. Held: Rises in future costs were already factored into the tables used for settlements. Attempts to show that rises would be more substantial trended to undermine that system, … Continue reading Cooke, Sheppard, Page v United Bristol Health Care, Stibbe and Another, Lee: CA 16 Oct 2003

Tesco Stores Ltd v Secretary of State for the Environment and Others: HL 11 May 1995

Three companies had applied for permission to build retail food superstores in Witney. The Inspector had recommended Tesco’s proposal, but the respondent rejected it. Tesco’s had offered to provide by way of a section 106 agreement full funding for a link road as part of its application. Held: The offer of funding for the link … Continue reading Tesco Stores Ltd v Secretary of State for the Environment and Others: HL 11 May 1995

Attorney-General’s Reference (No 2 of 2001): HL 11 Dec 2003

The house was asked whether it might be correct to stay criminal proceedings as an abuse where for delay. The defendants were prisoners in a prison riot in 1998. The case only came on for trial in 2001, when they submitted that the delay was an abuse. Held: The defendants had a right to a … Continue reading Attorney-General’s Reference (No 2 of 2001): HL 11 Dec 2003

Attorney-General’s Reference (No 4 of 1989): CACD 1990

The court considered the approach to be taken by an appellate court asked to review a sentence said to be unduly lenient: ‘The first thing to be observed is that it is implicit in the section that this Court may only increase sentences which it concludes were unduly lenient. It cannot, we are confident, have … Continue reading Attorney-General’s Reference (No 4 of 1989): CACD 1990

Westminster City Council v O’Reilly and others: CA 1 Jul 2003

The defendant sought to appeal against a decision of the High Court on a case stated by the Magistrates. Held: A decision by the High Court on an appeal by way of case stated from the Magistrates was final, and no further appeal lay to the Court of Appeal. The Order did not avoid the … Continue reading Westminster City Council v O’Reilly and others: CA 1 Jul 2003

Regina v Benfield; Regina v Sobers: CACD 21 Jul 2003

The defendants appealed life sentences for second serious offences under s109. They had been convicted of robbery. Held: The offence of robbery existed at the time when the 200 Act was created, and it was inconceivable that the new Act required in effect a creation of a secand variant of the offence involving the use … Continue reading Regina v Benfield; Regina v Sobers: CACD 21 Jul 2003

Regina v JT: CACD 2003

The provisions of section 68 were punitive, and therefore could not be read to have retrospective effect. Citations: [2003] EWCA Crim 1011 Statutes: Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 68, European Convention on Human Rights 6 Jurisdiction: England and Wales Citing: Cited – Ibbotson v United Kingdom ECHR 1998 While the applicant was serving … Continue reading Regina v JT: CACD 2003

Regina v Bartle and Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis and Others, ex parte Pinochet Ugarte; Regina v Evans and Similar (No 3): HL 24 Mar 1999

An application to extradite a former head of state for an offence which was not at the time an offence under English law would fail, but could proceed in respect of allegations of acts after that time. No immunity was intended for heads of state. International law prohibiting torture has the character of jus cogens … Continue reading Regina v Bartle and Commissioner of Police for the Metropolis and Others, ex parte Pinochet Ugarte; Regina v Evans and Similar (No 3): HL 24 Mar 1999

Charterhouse Clinical Research Unit Ltd v Richmond Pharmacology Ltd: QBD 2003

Morland J said: ‘it is the duty of the courts to keep claims alleging trade libels within their proper bounds, particularly having regard to s.12(4) of the Human Rights Act 1998 and Article 10 of the Convention.’ Judges: Morland J Citations: [2003] EWHC 1099 Statutes: European Convention on Human Rights 10, Human Rights Act 1998 … Continue reading Charterhouse Clinical Research Unit Ltd v Richmond Pharmacology Ltd: QBD 2003

Clark Contracts v The Burrell Co (Construction Management) Ltd (Second Debate): ScSf 1 Oct 2002

Judges: Sheriff J.A. Taylor Citations: 2002 SLT 103 Links: ScotC Statutes: Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 111 Jurisdiction: Scotland Cited by: Cited – Rupert Morgan Building Services (LLC) Ltd v Jervis and Jervis CA 12-Nov-2003 The defendants had engaged the claimants under standard form clauses for construction work. They issued a notice to … Continue reading Clark Contracts v The Burrell Co (Construction Management) Ltd (Second Debate): ScSf 1 Oct 2002

Regina v Sallis: CACD 29 Jan 2003

The magistrates had made an error in the form of committal, when remitting the defendant to the Crown Court for sentence. Held: The error had the effect of limiting the Crown Court to the powers which had been available to the magistrates. The statement of committal under section 4 had failed to include, as was … Continue reading Regina v Sallis: CACD 29 Jan 2003

L’Office Cherifien Des Phosphates and Another v Yamashita-Shinnihon Steamship Co Ltd: HL 19 Jan 1994

The subject matter of statutes is so varied that generalised maxims are not a reliable guide. An arbitrator can dismiss a claim for inordinate and inexcusable delay, even where this had arisen before the Act which created the power.Lord Mustill said: ‘Precisely how the single question of fairness will be answered in respect of a … Continue reading L’Office Cherifien Des Phosphates and Another v Yamashita-Shinnihon Steamship Co Ltd: HL 19 Jan 1994

Anangel Atlas Compania Naviera SA v Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co Ltd: 1990

The plaintiffs sought recovery of moneys paid by the defendants to one George Thomas Richardson Campbell, a distinguished naval architect on the ground that such payments has been made secretly while Mr Campbell has been acting for the plaintiffs in the negotiation of shipbuilding contracts with the defendants. Held: Leggatt J said: ‘For the purposes … Continue reading Anangel Atlas Compania Naviera SA v Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co Ltd: 1990

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

Pine Valley Developments Ltd And Others v Ireland: ECHR 29 Nov 1991

ECHR Preliminary objection rejected (victim); Preliminary objection rejected (non-exhaustion); No violation of P1-1; No violation of Art. 14+P1-1; Violation of Art. 14+P1-1; No violation of Art. 13; Just satisfaction reservedThe Court found a violation of Article 1 of Protocol No. 1 in circumstances where the domestic courts declared the planning permission a nullity on the … Continue reading Pine Valley Developments Ltd And Others v Ireland: ECHR 29 Nov 1991

In Re S (Hospital Patient: Court’s Jurisdiction): CA 6 Mar 1995

The carer of S sought a declaration that S’s wife and son were not entitled to remove him to Norway. Held: The court may try an issue as to the patient’s care as between rival claimants as carers. It should not tightly restrict list of carers able to apply for declaratory relief. A patient’s current … Continue reading In Re S (Hospital Patient: Court’s Jurisdiction): CA 6 Mar 1995

In Re L (A Minor) (Police Investigation: Privilege): HL 22 Mar 1996

A report obtained for Children Act proceedings has no privilege against use in evidence. Such proceedings are in the nature of inquisitorial proceedings. Litigation privilege was not applicable in care proceedings and a report prepared may be given to the police. Litigation privilege is essentially a creature of adversarial proceedings and thus cannot exist in … Continue reading In Re L (A Minor) (Police Investigation: Privilege): HL 22 Mar 1996

Regina v H (Special measures): CACD 28 Mar 2003

The defendant had learning difficulties, and sought permission from the court to have a support worker. He appealed an order made by the judge as to the steps to be taken. Held: The courts should be flexible and ready to assist where necessary to achieve fairness. Here, however the appeal court had no jurisdiction because … Continue reading Regina v H (Special measures): CACD 28 Mar 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

Biogen Plc v Medeva Plc: HL 31 Oct 1996

The claim patented sought to protect a genetic molecule rather than a whole mouse namely that the molecule would, if inserted into a suitable host cell, cause the cell to make antigens of the Hepatitis B virus. A recombinant method of making the antigens of a hepatitis virus was patented with a priority date of … Continue reading Biogen Plc v Medeva Plc: HL 31 Oct 1996

In re W (Children) (Care proceedings: Disclosure): FD 11 Jul 2003

The authority had received confidential information from the police about mistreatment of a child by a father. The allegation was unknown to the mother. It sought directions from the court as to the extent to which it could breach that confidentiality in order to protect the child. Held: The authority was under a duty to … Continue reading In re W (Children) (Care proceedings: Disclosure): FD 11 Jul 2003

Kurz v Stella Musical Veranstaltungs GmbH: ChD 1991

A prorogation clause which claimed to confer exclusive jurisdiction on the courts of one country would, if it complied with Article 17 in point of form, be given effect so as to exclude any other jurisdictions which might otherwise be competent under the Convention; but a prorogation clause which bore merely to confer non-exclusive jurisdiction … Continue reading Kurz v Stella Musical Veranstaltungs GmbH: ChD 1991

Red Sea Insurance Co Ltd v Bouygues SA and Others: PC 21 Jul 1994

Lex loci delicti (the law of the jurisdiction in which the act complained of took place) can exceptionally be used when the lex fori (the jurisdiction formally assigned) gives no remedy. In the case of a claim under a foreign tort, the double actionability exception may be applied to allow use of the lex loci … Continue reading Red Sea Insurance Co Ltd v Bouygues SA and Others: PC 21 Jul 1994

British Sugar Plc v James Roberston and Sons: ChD 17 Feb 1996

The question was raised on whether, given its derivation from article 5 of the trade mark directive, non-trade mark use could be caught by sections 10(1) to (3). Held: There was no trade mark infringement by the use of a common laudatory word. The trade mark registration was cancelled. Courts should look to whether they … Continue reading British Sugar Plc v James Roberston and Sons: ChD 17 Feb 1996

Moyna v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: HL 31 Jul 2003

The appellant had applied for and been refused disability living allowance on the basis of being able to carry out certain cooking tasks. Held: The purpose of the ‘cooking test’ is not to ascertain whether the applicant can survive, or enjoy a reasonable diet, without assistance. It is a notional test, a thought-experiment, to calibrate … Continue reading Moyna v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions: HL 31 Jul 2003

Hazell v Hammersmith and Fulham London Borough Council: HL 1991

Swap deals outwith Council powers The authority entered into interest rate swap deals to protect itself against adverse money market movements. They began to lose substantial amounts when interest rates rose, and the district auditor sought a declaration that the contracts were void, there being no express power in the relevant legislation. Held: The arrangements … Continue reading Hazell v Hammersmith and Fulham London Borough Council: HL 1991

Societe Eram Shipping Company Limited and others v Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp Ltd, Compagnie Internationale de Navigation: HL 12 Jun 2003

The appeal concerned a final third party debt order (formerly a garnishee order). A judgment in France was registered here for enforcement. That jurisdiction was now challenged. Held: A third party debt order is a proprietary remedy operating by attachment against the property of the judgment debtor. The property so attached is the chose in … Continue reading Societe Eram Shipping Company Limited and others v Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp Ltd, Compagnie Internationale de Navigation: HL 12 Jun 2003

JD, MAK and RK, RK and Another v East Berkshire Community Health, Dewsbury Health Care NHS Trust and Kirklees Metropolitan Council, Oldham NHS Trust and Dr Blumenthal: CA 31 Jul 2003

Damages were sought by parents for psychological harm against health authorities for the wrongful diagnosis of differing forms of child abuse. They appealed dismissal of their awards on the grounds that it was not ‘fair just and reasonable’ to impose such a duty. The appellants sought to distinguish X v Bedfordshire in different ways. Held: … Continue reading JD, MAK and RK, RK and Another v East Berkshire Community Health, Dewsbury Health Care NHS Trust and Kirklees Metropolitan Council, Oldham NHS Trust and Dr Blumenthal: CA 31 Jul 2003

Regina v McGrath: CACD 2003

The section 51(7) notice stated that the person had been sent for trial to the Crown Court ‘on the following indictable only offence: burglary, aggravated.’ Apart from the misspelling, the point was taken on appeal that the notice did not make clear the nature of the indictable-only offence; the appellant had not been charged with … Continue reading Regina v McGrath: CACD 2003

Regina v Forest of Dean Justices ex parte Farley: CACD 1990

The prosecutor had charged the defendant first with drink driving so as to take advantage of the provision placing upon the defendant the burden of proving that he had taken drink after the traffic accident and before testing. It iintended then to present a charge of causing death by dangerous driving in the Crown Court … Continue reading Regina v Forest of Dean Justices ex parte Farley: CACD 1990

Seaconsar Far East Ltd v Bank Markazi Jomhouri Islami Iran: HL 15 Oct 1993

A plaintiff must show that there is a ‘serious issue for trial’ to support and justify an application for overseas service. The standard of proof in respect of the cause of action relied on is whether, on the evidence, there was a serious question to be tried, i.e. a substantial question of fact or law, … Continue reading Seaconsar Far East Ltd v Bank Markazi Jomhouri Islami Iran: HL 15 Oct 1993

An NHS Trust v D (Medical Treatment: Consent: Termination): FD 28 Nov 2003

The defendant had been admitted to hospital under the 1983 Act and found to be pregnant. The doctors sought an order permitting an abortion. An order had been made, but the parties invited the court to say whether a court order was required at all. Held: Where there is any doubt as to either capacity … Continue reading An NHS Trust v D (Medical Treatment: Consent: Termination): FD 28 Nov 2003

A and Others, Regina (on the Application of) v Lord Saville of Newdigate and others: CA 28 Jul 1999

Former soldiers who had been involved in the events in Londonderry in 1972, and were to be called to give evidence before a tribunal of inquiry, still had cause to fear from their names being given, and so were entitled to anonymity when giving such evidence. The need for openness at such an inquiry did … Continue reading A and Others, Regina (on the Application of) v Lord Saville of Newdigate and others: CA 28 Jul 1999

Skuse v Granada Television: CA 30 Mar 1993

The claimant complained that the defendant had said in a television programme that he had failed to act properly when presenting his expert forensic evidence in court in the trial of the Birmingham Six. Held: The court should give to the material complained of the natural and ordinary meaning which it would have conveyed to … Continue reading Skuse v Granada Television: CA 30 Mar 1993

Arnold v National Westminster Bank Plc: HL 1991

Tenants invited the court to construe the terms of a rent review provision in the sub-underlease under which they held premises. The provision had been construed in a sense adverse to them in earlier proceedings before Walton J, but they had been unable to challenge his decision on appeal. Later cases threw doubt on his … Continue reading Arnold v National Westminster Bank Plc: HL 1991

BAS Capital Funding Corporation, Deutsche Bank Ag London, Paine Webber Capital Inc, PW Exe Lp, Pw Partners 1999 Lp v Medfinco Limited, Abacus Holdings Limited, Andreas W Gerdes, HTC Inc, etc: ChD 25 Jul 2003

The claimants wanted to bring actions in respect of various matters under shareholders agreements in complex international joint ventures. Leave was given to serve English proceedings in Malta, and the claim form and particulars of claim were faxed and emailed and delivered by hand at the registered offices of the company and at the private … Continue reading BAS Capital Funding Corporation, Deutsche Bank Ag London, Paine Webber Capital Inc, PW Exe Lp, Pw Partners 1999 Lp v Medfinco Limited, Abacus Holdings Limited, Andreas W Gerdes, HTC Inc, etc: ChD 25 Jul 2003

Target Holdings Ltd v Redferns (A Firm) and Another: HL 21 Jul 1995

The defendant solicitors had acted for a purchaser, Crowngate, which had agreed to buy a property from a company called Mirage for andpound;775,000. Crowngate had arranged however that the property would first be passed through a chain of two intermediate purchaser companies, Panther and Kohli, with Kohli then selling to Crowngate at a stated price … Continue reading Target Holdings Ltd v Redferns (A Firm) and Another: HL 21 Jul 1995

Regina v North and East Devon Health Authority ex parte Coughlan and Secretary of State for Health Intervenor and Royal College of Nursing Intervenor: CA 16 Jul 1999

Consultation to be Early and Real Listening The claimant was severely disabled as a result of a road traffic accident. She and others were placed in an NHS home for long term disabled people and assured that this would be their home for life. Then the health authority decided that they were in need of … Continue reading Regina v North and East Devon Health Authority ex parte Coughlan and Secretary of State for Health Intervenor and Royal College of Nursing Intervenor: CA 16 Jul 1999

Pay v Lancashire Probation Service: EAT 29 Oct 2003

The appellant challenged refusal of his claim for unfair dismissal. A probation officer, he had business interests in fire breathing and bondage merchandising which the service said were incompatible with his duties, and dismissed him. He complained that this infringed his right to freedom of expression. Held: A public authority had to respect an employee’s … Continue reading Pay v Lancashire Probation Service: EAT 29 Oct 2003

Regina v Secretary of State for The Home Department Ex Parte Simms: HL 8 Jul 1999

Ban on Prisoners talking to Journalists unlawful The two prisoners, serving life sentences for murder, had had their appeals rejected. They continued to protest innocence, and sought to bring their campaigns to public attention through the press, having oral interviews with journalists without undertakings from the journalists not to publish any element of the interview. … Continue reading Regina v Secretary of State for The Home Department Ex Parte Simms: HL 8 Jul 1999

Woodcock v The Government of New Zealand: QBD 14 Nov 2003

The applicant, a catholic priest, challenged his extradition for alleged offences of sexual abuse which had taken place in the 1980s, saying it would be an abuse now to prosecute him after such a delay. Held: The case of R v B was of a particular character and not of assistance to the applicant. The … Continue reading Woodcock v The Government of New Zealand: QBD 14 Nov 2003

Oao Neftyanaya Kompaniya Yukos v Russia (Just Satisfaction): ECHR 31 Jul 2014

ECHR Article 41 Non-pecuniary damage Pecuniary damage Just satisfaction Award in respect of pecuniary damage sustained by company in liquidation to be paid to its shareholders Facts – The case concerned tax and enforcement proceedings brought in 2004 against the Russian oil company, OAO Neftyanaya Kompaniya Yukos (Yukos), which eventually led to its liquidation in … Continue reading Oao Neftyanaya Kompaniya Yukos v Russia (Just Satisfaction): ECHR 31 Jul 2014

Tinnelly and Sons Ltd and Others and McElduff and Others v United Kingdom: ECHR 10 Jul 1998

Legislation which disallowed claimants who asserted that they had been discriminated against, on the grounds of their religious background, from appealing through the courts system, was a clear breach of their human rights. A limitation will not be compatible with Article 6(1) if it does not pursue a legitimate aim and if there is not … Continue reading Tinnelly and Sons Ltd and Others and McElduff and Others v United Kingdom: ECHR 10 Jul 1998

Findlay v The United Kingdom: ECHR 25 Feb 1997

The applicant complained that the members of a court-martial were appointed by the Convening Officer, who was closely linked to the prosecuting authorities. The members of the court-martial were subordinate in rank to the Convening Officer who had the power in prescribed circumstances to dissolve the court-martial either before or during the trial. The Strasbourg … Continue reading Findlay v The United Kingdom: ECHR 25 Feb 1997

Department for Constitutional Affairs FS50067992: ICO 12 Apr 2006

ICO (Decision Notice) The complainant requested copies of any judgements that may have been made relating to the Copyright and Related Rights Regulations 2003. The request was made to Her Majesty’s Courts Service, which is an executive agency of the Department for Constitutional Affairs. The Department did not issue a refusal notice in accordance with … Continue reading Department for Constitutional Affairs FS50067992: ICO 12 Apr 2006

Regina v Gough (Robert): HL 1993

The defendant had been convicted of robbery. He appealed, saying that a member of the jury was a neighbour to his brother, and there was therefore a risk of bias. This was of particular significance as the defendant was charged with conspiracy with that brother to commit burglaries. The juror had sworn an affidavit that … Continue reading Regina v Gough (Robert): HL 1993

Kuwait Oil Tanker Company SAK and others v UBS AG, Qabazard: HL 12 Jun 2003

Mr Qabazard conspired with others to defraud the Kuwait Oil Tanker Company SAK and Sitka Shipping Inc of large sums of money. On 16 November 1998 Moore-Bick J gave judgment against him for over US$130m. Historically sums had been placed with the defendant, and garnishee orders were sought. Held: It is not correct to characterise … Continue reading Kuwait Oil Tanker Company SAK and others v UBS AG, Qabazard: HL 12 Jun 2003

Regina v Central Valuation Officer and another ex parte Edison First Power Limited: HL 10 Apr 2003

Powergen sold a property to Edison. Powergen had paid rates under a separate statutory rating regime, and paid an additional thirteen million pounds under an apportionment. Edison later complained that in being rated itself, the authorities had collected rates twice for the same property. It challenged the legality of the order under which the rates … Continue reading Regina v Central Valuation Officer and another ex parte Edison First Power Limited: HL 10 Apr 2003

Cockburn v Chief Adjudication Officer and Another and Secretary of State for Social Services v Fairey: HL 21 May 1997

The provision of an interpreter for a deaf person was included in range of care needed for attendance for Disability Living Allowance. Dealing with his soiled laundry was not so included: ‘In my opinion it is not enough to ask whether the act in question is done with the aim of keeping the disabled person … Continue reading Cockburn v Chief Adjudication Officer and Another and Secretary of State for Social Services v Fairey: HL 21 May 1997

Regina v R (Sentencing: Extended licences): CACD 25 Jul 2003

The imposition of an extended period of licence in respect of offences committed before 1992 did not infringe the defendant’s human rights. The defendant had been convicted of offences from 1976 and 1982. The commencement date for the 1991 Act was 1 October 1992. Held: The true nature of the provision was preventive, to ensure … Continue reading Regina v R (Sentencing: Extended licences): CACD 25 Jul 2003

Attorney General’s Reference (No 1 of 1990): CACD 1990

A police officer attended an incident where two people were arrested. Complaints about his conduct were made of which he was given notice. A formal investigation was instituted and adjourned pending the outcome of criminal proceedings against those arrested. They were acquitted in January 1988. The investigation of the complaints was then resumed. In March … Continue reading Attorney General’s Reference (No 1 of 1990): CACD 1990

Attorney General’s Reference (No 3 of 1999) (Lynn): HL 15 Dec 2000

A DNA sample had been wrongfully retained after the suspect had been acquitted, and the sample had been used in a later investigation to identify him. A subsequent sample had been taken, and the result of that second test had been used as evidence at trial. The defendant objected, and claimed that it had been … Continue reading Attorney General’s Reference (No 3 of 1999) (Lynn): HL 15 Dec 2000

Hatton and Others v The United Kingdom: ECHR 8 Jul 2003

More Night Flights No Infringement of Family Life The claimants complained that the respondent had acted to infringe their rights. They were residents living locally to Heathrow Airport. They claimed the respondent had increased the number of night flights, causing increased noise, but without allowing them an opportunity to challenge the increase. Held: The claimants … Continue reading Hatton and Others v The United Kingdom: ECHR 8 Jul 2003