Gerry Adams' defamation case against BBC a 'cynical attempt to launder' his reputation, court told

Counsel said Mr Adams was attempting to say his reputation is different to what he effectively acknowledged in evidence, that people have repeatedly said he was a member of the IRA and its army council

Gerry Adams' lawyers argue his reputation is that of a 'peacemaker', and the BBC allegation represents an 'unjustified attack' on his reputation. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Gerry Adams’ defamation case against the BBC is a cynical attempt to launder a reputation he was in the Provisional IRA, and sat on its army council, a barrister has told the High Court.

Paul Gallagher SC, for the BBC, made the remarks in his closing address to the jury in the former Sinn Féin leader’s action.