TORTS II Defamation Worksheet 2

1. When are words considered to be defamatory?

2. Discuss the two types of innuendo which can be pleaded in an action for
defamation.

3. The directors of Hustlers Inc., a longstanding newspaper, are extremely

concerned about their constant fall in ratings.

At a special meeting called on Monday morning to discuss the issue with

the company’s news reporters, the Chairman mandates them to “find and
publish some juicy, controversial stories” to get the Newspaper back in the
number one spot”.

Peeper decided to stake out No. 4 Richmond (a plush residential house

known only to some as a brothel) every night of the week and then
incorrectly reports that “Mr. Stuckup visited No. 4 Richmond every night for
the last week.”

Mr. Stuckup, who was overseas at the time, claims that his character has
been assaulted by this article and sues the newspaper for libel.

Scandaliser calls up one of his malicious friends and asks for a scoop.
He is then able to carry the story that:

“a top architect has been putting everything, especially

participation in sporting events, before the timely inspection of
major roadworks and other construction projects in this
country. Some motorists feel unsafe on the roads amidst reports
that some bridges may be below acceptable standards and some
people are reluctant to enter newly constructed public buildings as
they might be structurally unsound.”

Of the eight architects qualified to carry on business in the Island, only Mr.
Steele and Ironman are known to have any interest in sports and
Ironman has been on extended leave for the last 15 months.

On reading the article, four of Mr. Steele’s professional colleagues

immediately thought that the article referred to him and called him up with
two expressly telling him, however, that they thought no less of him.

Ronald Toppin September 18, 2014

Ronald Toppin September 18, 2014