A publisher burns its own books
Well, it’s actually pulping them, but what’s the difference?
Cambridge University Press has agreed to destroy all unsold copies of a book linking Saudi charities with terrorism, after a Saudi businessman threatened a lawsuit. That businessman, Sheikh Khalid Mahfouz, has brought libel suits against multiple publishers for their books accusing the Saudis of supporting terrorism through various charities. The publishers often settle rather than going to trial, regardless of the validity of the claims, causing free speech advocates to fear a chilling effect.
More on:
Cambridge University Press decision here.
Blog commentary from author who won a British libel case here.
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Dear Audiophiles:
I liked your clear, concise piece about the strangely underreported libel tourism situation involving Saudi Bin Mahfouz and Cambridge University Press. I represent the publisher of Dr. Rachel Ehrenfeld’s book, FUNDING EVIL, also mentioned in your piece. I just wanted to make you aware of some updated info on this story, including a statement released today by Ehrenfeld’s publisher, Jeffrey A. Stern of Bonus Books. Perhaps the real question is, why aren’t MORE publishers speaking out. And what’s more, what about the mainstream media?
Click below for related news links. Thanks!
http://hotair.com/archives/2007/08/02/hot-air-audio-how-one-wealthy-jihad-supporter-is-using-uk-courts-to-killl-american-free-speech/
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/pam-meister/2007/08/02/not-much-ado-over-alms-libel-outcome