Campaigners have called for defamation law reform to be extended to Northern Ireland “as soon as possible” to avoid chilling public debate and freedom of expression.

The News Media Association and Media Lawyers Association have joined other activists in calling for the Defamation Act 2013 to be introduced to the country.

It comes after the Scottish Law Commission announced earlier this month it was launching a review to make libel laws in Scotland “fit for the internet age”.

The Act currently only applies in England and Wales, meaning publishers in Scotland and Northern Ireland still have direct responsibility for anonymous online comments made by members of the public.

In a submission to the Northern Ireland Law Commission’s consultation on the matter, NMA legal, policy and regulatory affairs director Santha Rasaiah said: “The NMA and its members strongly support the extension of the Defamation Act 2013 in full to the Northern Irish jurisdiction and its implementation as soon as possible.

“Defamation reform is rare and the Act resulted from considerable discussion and consultation, ensuring consideration of all perspectives.

“Its implementation would benefit freedom of expression, whilst facilitating better understanding of the legal limits upon it.

“Its extension to Northern Ireland would avert the detrimental consequences of legal inconsistency in such an important area, which could increase legal complexity and uncertainty, deepening the chill upon debate of matters of public interest.

“Its implementation could also lead to swifter determination of defamation claims, instead of adding to the length and costs of actions.”

The MLA described the current legislation as “tired, out of date, complex and expensive” in its submission.