British Expatriate Network

Interest in this may be limited to me, but I thought I'd post it anyway. This is one of my favorite legal cases (and having a favorite legal case marks me out as a wierdo for a start o ).

http//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4266209.stm

The best bit about this case is the way two people embarrassed a large and bullying corporation - not through the original leaflet, which most have never seen, but by standing up to the threats.

On this board we frequently have debates about the meaning of freedom of speech. David and Helen went through hell defending this case, representing themselves, and have suffered near financial ruin for their trouble.

At the time this all started, campaigning against junk food and big corporations was a fringe activity. Now it is mainstream with books and even movies on the topic. Much of that debate is a direct result of the 313 days David and Helen spent in court standing up for their rights to express their opinions.

Every time I see an ad for a Macdonalds salad I smile and think of that trial. The legal system at its worst, a big corporation trying to silence its critics, became the legal system at its best - inspiration for progessive change.

Ah yes, I had a gigggle at the poor old Brits having to review their libel laws and legal aid laws. Bowt bloody time was all I could think. Saw the two on TV and just love the spunk they have. Mind i think it must have taken over their entire lives for such a long time, someone really rich should buy them a cruise for their good works.

Great stuff, Rob. Had a look at your link last night and asked Her, "This was big stuff in the UK then?" She was gobsmacked that I was unaware of the whole thing. Didn't cause much of a stir over here. I went out and read their entire website last night. You really have to admire them for sheer awkwardness if nothing else!

How inspirational to hear of two people who stuck to their principles in the face of such adversity. Well done, them! D

8) I sometimes think the European Court Of Human Rights does not really come from this planet. In this case I think they have got it right this time. Saying that like most government type operations, people only get to here the bad stuff and not the good.

Good to see joe average get one over the big guys

I cant wait for the movie 'Supersize My Libel' D

What makes you think having a favourite legal case makes you a wierdo ????

being a regular on this site is enought . :) :) :) :) :) :)