Minister calls for NDA review amid abuse allegations against David Walliams
Women in media industry speak out about 'gagging orders' and culture prioritising celebrity privacy.
Women and equalities minister Bridget Phillipson has called for a review of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), stating there is "scope to go further" in restricting their use to prevent the legal system from being abused "to silence women". Her comments follow allegations of sexual assault and grooming made against author and TV personality David Walliams by multiple women. Walliams denies any wrongdoing.
The allegations against Walliams, reported by The Guardian and ITV News after his unsuccessful bid to obtain an injunction, have prompted a broader discussion about abuses of power by high-profile figures in the media industry. This discussion is further amplified by the recent sentencing of comedian Russell Brand, who received 10 and a half years imprisonment at Southwark Crown Court on Monday for sexual assault offences.
Culture of Silence
Make-up artist Lou Teasdale, whose clients have included members of One Direction, described a prevailing culture within the industry. She stated in an Instagram post that it is "open and standard protocol for girls to sign NDAs and have their phones taken from them before they’re left alone with a famous man". Teasdale clarified she was not accusing specific individuals of wrongdoing but was highlighting a system where "a celebrity man’s privacy" is deemed more important than "a woman’s safety".
She questioned the accountability of individuals when agreements are in place to "remove the woman’s voice and the device that would keep her safe". Comedian Lucy Beaumont told Sky News that she had acted as a whistleblower, informing The Guardian after a young person in the TV industry shared concerns with her about Walliams's conduct. Beaumont indicated that fear of professional repercussions prevents many high-profile individuals from speaking out.
Media minister Ian Murray, giving evidence to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee on Wednesday, expressed his sadness and anger regarding the prevalence of abuse by men in the media industry. He identified NDAs as "a major part of the problem".
Questions this report answers
01What are non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)?
Non-disclosure agreements, often called NDAs or gagging orders, are legal contracts that prevent individuals from sharing certain information. In the context of the media industry, concerns have been raised that they are used to silence victims and protect celebrities, prioritising privacy over safety.
02What allegations have been made against David Walliams?
Multiple women have made allegations of sexual assault and grooming against author and TV personality David Walliams. One woman described her alleged encounter with Walliams, when she was 15, as a sexual assault, while others accused him of grooming them when they were teenagers. Walliams denies any wrongdoing.
03Why is the government reviewing NDAs?
Women and equalities minister Bridget Phillipson has called for a review of NDAs, stating there is "scope to go further" in restricting their use. The aim is to ensure the legal system is not abused to silence women and to address concerns that these agreements contribute to abuses of power by high-profile figures in industries like the media.
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