Overview: An author is accused of blackmail after writing a book titled 'Just Good Friends?' in which he claimed that the close relationship between two eminent former M.P.s (one of whom has recently died) was of a homosexual nature. The author denies the charge and claims that he was offered £15000 not to publish the book by the surviving Member of Parliament, who wanted to keep the nature of the relationship quiet. The politician denies that the relationship was homosexual and claims he was blackmailed by the author. Helen Tate QC puts the case for the defense while Charles Lotterby QC prosecutes.