Bolton and the Irish Sun

Decision of the Press Council

At its meeting on 10th October the Council gave careful consideration to the application to appeal but decided that the submission did not provide adequate grounds either in relation to new evidence or to any error in procedure or in the application of the principles of the code to warrant a full consideration of the appeal. The appeal was largely based on the contention that the Ombudsman should protect complainants and award costs in respect of legal expenses.

The Press Council, while acknowledging the right of complainants to use legal counsel, wishes to point out that they do not have to do so, and the Council has no authority to award costs nor do they have any legal obligation to do so.

The Decision of the Press Ombudsman is therefore upheld.