scandal · ownership
David Sullivan's dispute with the BBC over Panorama allegations
Started Last Movement
David Sullivan has filed a High Court claim against the BBC over Panorama. The Independent says court records list libel and slander, while the Daily Star quotes the claim as alleging libel and malicious falsehood and serious harm to his reputation and business interests.
Sullivan denies the programme's allegations. The BBC declined to comment to both outlets.
No-Guff Summary
- The Independent says court records show Sullivan filed a High Court claim against the BBC. His lawyers say he seeks more than £150m.
- The Independent describes the filing as libel and slander. The Daily Star quotes Sullivan's claim as alleging libel and malicious falsehood and serious reputational and business harm.
- Sullivan denies the allegations examined by Panorama. The BBC declined to comment to both outlets.
Telegraph reports Sullivan close to filing BBC libel claim
The Telegraph says David Sullivan is close to taking his dispute with the BBC to the High Court. The report, quoted by Claret&Hugh, says the former West Ham co-chairman is on the brink of lodging a claim for libel and aggravated damages over allegations aired in Panorama. It does not confirm that a claim has been filed.
The Telegraph account says Sullivan announced that he would sue the BBC in the statement in which he resigned as West Ham co-chairman and director. Claret&Hugh says he denies the allegations. The outlet also argues that a high-profile case could bring unwanted attention to West Ham, where it says he remains a major shareholder. That potential club impact is Claret&Hugh's assessment.
Sources
- Claret&Hugh (opens in a new tab) — Reports that David Sullivan is close to filing a High Court libel claim against the BBC over allegations aired in its Panorama programme, citing a Telegraph exclusive; Sullivan denies the allegations.
- Knees up Mother Brown (opens in a new tab) — Reports that The Telegraph says David Sullivan is close to filing a £150 million libel and aggravated-damages claim against the BBC. Sullivan has denied the allegations addressed by the broadcaster’s Panorama investigation.
- MailOnline (opens in a new tab) — Reports that David Sullivan is seeking £150 million in aggravated damages from the BBC over its Panorama investigation; Sullivan denies the allegations made in the programme.