British judge to examine possible curbs to use of gag orders on the media

One of Britain's top judges is heading a committee that will consider restricting the use of legal gag orders that critics say stifle the media. Media outlets have expressed alarm at the increasing use of "super-injunctions," court orders which ban reporting of details of a case, or even that an injunction exists. The Justice Ministry said Monday that Master of the Rolls David Neuberger would head a committee examining the use of injunctions and super-injunctions. It will be made up of judges and lawyers representing both claimants and defendants and is due to report in May.
The move follows growing criticism of Britain's claimant-friendly libel laws, which civil liberties groups say are stifling investigative journalism and media freedom.