They are. Friend of mine worked as a junior solicitor with the libel tourism firm in the UK. The jurisdiction was used as a court of convenience for everything

They are. Friend of mine worked as a junior solicitor with the libel tourism firm in the UK. The jurisdiction was used as a court of convenience for everything from the Johnny Depp trial to Scientology suing Louis Theroux. Scientology were one of their largest clients, and worked with them to try prevent the release of books and documentaries in various territories, credibly threatening defamation suits. UK (and Irish) defamation laws don't exist to prevent falsehoods. They exist and are regularly used, to prevent embarrassment and financial damage to the most powerful people in society. There are a number of prominent public figures in the UK who would likely be in prison for sexual transgression, but for threats and intimidation of children and young adults from this and similar law firms. It's a monstrous situation.