Blogger ordered to pay former Tory treasurer £45,000 in libel damages

A former Conservative Party treasurer accused by a blogger of trying to “secure an illegal political donation” has been awarded £45,000 libel damages by a High Court judge.

Businessman Peter Cruddas had sued after being attacked by Mark Adams in a series of blogs and tweets, a High Court hearing in London had been told.

Mr Adams had apologised and Mr Justice Eady said “allegations of criminality against Mr Cruddas” were false.

The judge added, in a written ruling: “He is entitled to have his reputation vindicated in that respect.”