Bringing together the most seminal articles written by leading international experts, this volume discusses all aspects of freedom of the press. The papers in the first part of this volume discuss the meaning of press freedom and its relationship to freedom of speech, while those in the second part discuss the extent to which self-regulation is a satisfactory alternative to legal controls. The essays in parts III and IV explore the various solutions adopted in the USA and in some Commonwealth countries to balancing the freedom of the press and other media against the laws of libel and privacy. They discuss, among other issues, the question whether courts should apply the same constitutional principles to privacy actions as those developed in libel law and how far celebrities are entitled to claim privacy rights when they are photographed in public places.

The Twelfth Edition examines the legal implications of changes in media systems and services wherever they occur. It both traces communications law issues to their sources and considers their future directions. The text reviews the historical and constitutional foundations of free expression, and the implications of mass communications law for the citizen. It explores the governmental regulation of broadcasting, new media, advertising and copyright. It discusses citizens' rights with regard to fact-gathering. And it surveys the ongoing consolidation and globalization of the mass media and the means by which communications are distributed.

1. Introduction -- 2. Is a defamatory meaning conveyed? English and Australian law -- 3. Defences relevant to meaning : English and Australian law -- 4. Meaning : English defamation practice -- 5. Meaning : New South Wales defamation practice -- 6. Meaning : Victorian defamation practice -- 7. Qualified privilege : English and Australian law and practice -- 8. US defamation law and practice -- 9. Lucas-box and Polly Peck in Australia -- 10. Comparative defamation law and practice.