Trafigura: An Opinion Piece. Opinion! No facts here!

As I have previously mentioned, UK libel law is quite unusual in that it essentially places the burden of proof onto the accused rather than the accuser. Also, the defence costs, even if the defence is successful, have to be carried by the accused, and the costs can easily be half a million pounds. This leaves most organisations and individuals with no choice other than not to contest the suit and having to retract their statements.

On a completely unrelated note, have a series of links to some interesting - but potentially libellous and untrue - news articles about oil trading company Trafigura:

• How UK oil company Trafigura tried to cover up African pollution disaster, The Guardian, Wednesday 16 September
• Trafigura knew of waste dangers, BBC News, Wednesday 16 September
• Call for murder charges to be brought over toxic dumping, The Independent, Friday 18 September

In my personal opinion...

Wait, am I allowed to have an opinion on this?

I'm not entirely certain. I was under the impression that people were generally allowed to have an opinion, but recent events have somewhat dented that idea.

So you're just going to have to form your own. But then you must keep it to yourself, or at least not mention it within sight or earshot of Trafigura's lawyers...