Appleby taking legal action after leak

Paradise Paper investigation prompts decision

The firm at the centre of the Paradise Papers says it's pursuing legal action against those who made allegations.

Appleby, which has a large office in Douglas, had millions of confidential files leaked earlier this year, sparking a global debate about tax ethics.

Many of them surrounded the affairs of wealthy individuals operating in the Isle of Man.

There has been speculation over the legality of the data leak since it went public in November - and now Appleby has formally hit back, saying it is 'obliged' to file proceedings against the UK outlets who broke many of the stories.

Bosses have demanded The Guardian and the BBC hand over the documents they've seen and used in investigations.

The firm is also seeking damages, claiming there was 'no public interest' in any of the stories published.

Both media outlets have vowed to defend themselves in any future proceedings.