Trump legal team withholds financial data in $10b BBC defamation case, FT reports

WEB DESK: The legal team of US President Donald Trump has reportedly refused to provide financial information sought by lawyers for the BBC in a $10b defamation lawsuit, according to a report by the Financial Times citing court filings.

The dispute stems from Trump’s claim that the BBC defamed him by selectively editing a 2021 speech related to the January 6 Capitol riot, allegedly altering its context. The broadcaster has rejected the allegations and is seeking to have the case dismissed.

BBC pushes for Trump trust disclosures

According to court documents cited in the FT, the BBC has subpoenaed financial records from the Donald J Trump Revocable Trust, which is managed by Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr. The broadcaster is seeking detailed information on assets, holdings, tax returns and valuations linked to nearly 400 entities connected to the trust.

The BBC argues that the documents are necessary to assess the alleged financial harm caused to Trump’s business interests, including his brand, properties and commercial ventures.

Dispute over damages and January 6 edit

Trump’s lawsuit, filed in Florida in December, seeks at least $5b in damages on two counts, alleging violations of state laws on deceptive and unfair trade practices. His legal spokesperson has accused the BBC of “intentionally and maliciously defaming him”, maintaining that the broadcaster distorted his January 6 remarks.

The BBC, however, maintains that its editing was fair and has argued in court filings that Trump’s subsequent political success undermines claims of reputational damage.

The case remains ongoing, with both sides yet to reach a settlement or court resolution.