A cross-party group of MPs in the UK is advocating for the outlawing of strategic lawsuits against public participation (Slapps), which they argue are used excessively to silence whistleblowers and journalists.

According to the MPs, these lawsuits have been employed in cases like the Post Office Horizon scandal and allegations involving Mohamed Al Fayed, as documented by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism.

Despite previous government intentions, Justice Minister Heidi Alexander indicated there are no current plans for legislation this session, citing the complexity of the issue.

Labour MP Lloyd Hatton introduced a motion for comprehensive anti-Slapp legislation, which gained support from other MPs, including former Conservative culture secretary John Whittingdale, who criticized the use of such legal tactics.

Among the highlighted cases was the defamation attempt by the Kremlin-backed Wagner group's leader against Bellingcat's Eliot Higgins, while he was sanctioned by the UK government.

Labour MP Andy Slaughter noted Slapps are often used by wealthy individuals to deter publication of public interest stories, such as Mohamed Al Fayed's legal actions to conceal misdeeds.

Conservative MP Julian Lewis recounted how the Post Office employed legal intimidation to suppress the Horizon scandal exposure.

Additional cases mentioned included media outlet Inside Housing, which faced legal threats while investigating a housing issue involving asylum seekers, and Green MP Siân Berry's account of Ben Jenkins, who faced legal challenges from GreenSquareAccord for exposing housing problems.

The story of journalist Tom Latchem, who investigated a foster care home linked to reality TV star Ampika Pickston, also highlighted how legal warnings can discourage further reporting due to potential costs.

Many MPs argue for legislation ensuring swift dismissal of Slapps, protection from prohibitive legal costs, and significant financial penalties for those who file them.