Top Tories call for action as law firms’ use of ‘slapps’ rises

Solicitors accused of using lawsuits to stifle criticism of prominent figures include those acting for Nadhim ZahawiMinisters are under pressure to speed up action against the use of legal tactics by powerful figures to silence legitimate criticism. This comes after a surge in investigations into their use.The Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) warned the profession against employing such tactics at the end of last year, but says their use has increased since then, and it is now examining 40 cases.