Hearings
02 Apr 1971 [1972] 1 QB 127; [1971] 3 WLR 445; [1971] 2 All ER 910; 69 LGR 561, DC
03 May 1972 [1972] AC 824; [1972] 2 WLR 1320; [1972] 2 All ER 475; 70 LGR 455, HL(E)
Alphacell Ltd v Woodward
Subject Matter
JUSTICES — Case stated — Practice — Findings of fact — Merely setting out evidence no substitute
[1972] AC 824; [1972] 2 WLR 1320
RIVER — Pollution — Causation — Effluent in settling tanks — Breakdown of pumping system — Overflow into river — No knowledge on part of owner of works that effluent overflowing — No negligence — Whether guilty of causing polluting matter to enter river — Rivers (Prevention of Pollution) Act 1951, s 2 (1)
[1972] 1 QB 127; [1972] AC 824; [1971] 3 WLR 445; [1972] 2 WLR 1320
Appellate History
Alphacell Ltd v Woodward [1972] 1 QB 127; [1971] 3 WLR 445; [1971] 2 All ER 910; 69 LGR 561, DC
Decision of the Divisional Court affirmed
Alphacell Ltd v Woodward [1972] AC 824; [1972] 2 WLR 1320; [1972] 2 All ER 475; 70 LGR 455, HL(E)
Commentary
Blackstones Criminal Practice 2025
Novus Actus Interveniens - Exceptional Natural Events
A1.39
Strict Liability - Imposition of Strict Liability - Absence or Use of Particular Words A2.25
Strict Liability - Imposition of Strict Liability - Statutory Defences A2.27
Strict Liability - General Defences - Act of God A2.30
Special Rules of Attribution: Statutory Construction A6.7