Associated Newspapers general counsel Harvey Kass continues to be one of the busiest in-house counsel around. Kass's wide remit covers the publishing group's corporate activities, which during 2006 have included fighting for distribution rights for its freesheets Metro and London Lite.

Kass is also responsible for keeping a close eye on any defamation claims brought against Associated's many publications, as well as upholding the fundamental principles of freedom of expression.

Associated recently launched a claim against the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal over disclosure, and Kass has been one of the most outspoken supporters of the media's right to access court documents. There is no doubt that Kass remains a key player in the world of media law.