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MP takes legal advice against Rochdale Observer

Date published: 22 June 2009

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen is planning to launch legal proceedings against the Rochdale Observer for “inaccurate and misleading” coverage of MP’s expenses.

The newspaper printed a story last week detailing purchases which the MP says are incorrect and damaging to his reputation.

Mr Rowen described the Rochdale Observer’s coverage as, “…inaccurate, misleading and damaging to my reputation.”

He added: “I have spoken at length to my solicitors and they will now start legal proceedings in relation to their coverage.

“Their coverage was inaccurate, misleading and damaging to my reputation and I am furious at their handling of the whole issue. I will be pushing for a full retraction in next week’s paper, associated costs and a donation to Springhill Hospice.

“Like other news organisations, I invited the Rochdale Observer three weeks ago to come and personally review my expenses.

“They chose not to take up the opportunity to ask any questions.

"After 25 years as an elected councillor and MP, this is the first time that I have felt it necessary to take action against local media.”

Comments

I should think Mr. Rowen, would want his case hearing in camera. Like most of the MPs. Why blanked out parts of the expense sheets. Sir Cyril Smith never wanted to hide his home address. Mr. Rowen, the damage is done, I feel sure the Observer have not published something they cannot justify. Stop while you are ahead, the gravy train stops here, now is the time to get off.

And will Mr Rowen be using taxpayers money to pursue the case against the newspaper? Have they actually reported anything that is factually incorrect? The electorate will have the final say, whatever the newspaper reports, and whatever the outcome of any civil case. Be careful not to bite the hand that feeds you Mr Rowen.