Test for press freedom as verdict due in Arron Banks libel case against Carole Cadwalladr

Judgment in the action against the Observer and Guardian's Carole Cadwalladr will have huge implications for UK journalists

The highly anticipated judgment in the libel action brought by multimillionaire Brexit backer Arron Banks against the Observer and Guardian journalist Carole Cadwalladr will be handed down this week. The landmark verdict will potentially have huge ramifications for press freedom and investigative reporting.

Mrs Justice Steyn will deliver her judgment by email on Monday morning. The decision will be the culmination of an often rancorous three-year legal battle and could send a chilling effect throughout British journalism.