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Decision in the proceedings for Contempt: Mr Tim Crosland

Decision in the proceedings for Contempt: Mr Tim Crosland

In the matter of Her Majesty's Attorney General v Crosland

On Monday 10th May 2021, proceedings for contempt brought by the Attorney General, Rt Hon Michael Ellis QC MP against Mr Tim Crosland took place at the Royal Courts of Justice, before three Supreme Court Justices, Lord Lloyd-Jones, Lord Hamblen and Lord Stephens.

Mr Crosland, an environmental lawyer, acted for Plan B in the case heard at the UK Supreme Court about Heathrow's third runway. The contempt proceedings involved an allegation that prior to the judgment being delivered Mr Crosland, in breach of confidentiality and of an embargo, issued a statement to the news wire Press Association, disclosing the Supreme Court's decision.

Mr Crosland was found in criminal contempt of court for deliberately disclosing the result of a Supreme Court appeal prior to hand down of the judgment, following proceedings brought by the Attorney General. The Supreme Court has imposed a fine of £5,000.

The full judgment will follow in due course.