The London Metropolitan Police, commonly known as Scotland Yard, faced severe criticism in the High Court when their bid to access a journalist's laptops and phones was quashed.

Protecting the Free Press

Yesterday's ruling marked a major victory for press freedom as the judge unequivocally rejected the Met Police's attempt to obtain access to a journalist's electronic devices.

Government Leak Investigation

The police force had targeted a freelance journalist in their pursuit of leaked confidential government documents and insisted on gaining access to their tech.

In response to articles that had embarrassed government ministers, counter-terror officers had previously conducted a raid on the reporter's residence, seizing their equipment.

Protection of Journalistic Sources

While the law is designed to safeguard journalists' sources, Scotland Yard argued that national security should override this fundamental principle.

Secret Legal Proceedings

The legal proceedings were conducted in secrecy, adding to the controversy surrounding the case.

Journalist's Anonymity

The journalist involved, known only as LXP, was granted anonymity throughout the court proceedings.

In court, police officers claimed that two individuals employed by the government were LXP's sources and contended that classified material had essentially been stolen from the government.

Met Police's Breach of Domestic Law

However, Lady Justice Macur ruled that the Met Police had violated both domestic law and the European Convention on Human Rights.

Gratitude for Support

Following the ruling, LXP's legal representatives at Bindmans expressed their client's gratitude to the National Union of Journalists and the Free Speech Union for their unwavering support.

LXP also thanked HOAR, Associated Newspapers, Telegraph Media Group, and Jewish Chronicle for their invaluable assistance.

Press Freedom at the Forefront

A government insider emphasized the importance of upholding press freedom and urged careful consideration of the next steps to be taken.