aug 1, 2006 - Bell Pottinger works for Carter Ruck, Trafigura's lawyers

Description:

According to their website, Bell Pottinger’s brief was to “manage intense media attention surrounding Trafigura following accusations of offloading toxic waste and prioritising profits over health and safety” by setting up a “24/7 news management team” to respond to media queries and major developments “as the story progressed”.

“The team quickly and effectively worked alongside Trafigura to ensure the seamless transfer of information”.

The result was “stronger working relationships” between Trafigura and “key journalists”, “whilst cutting through inaccuracies and clearly articulating the facts on the ground”.

What this translated to was teaming up with law firm Carter-Ruck to threaten media houses with libel cases when they reported critically on the case.

They were also hired to help deal with communications around the class action suit later brought by Leigh Day.