Mr Roberts-Smith denies the allegations and says the reports are defamatory because they portray him as a criminal. The media will defend the claim using a truth defence at a trial to start on June 7.
Seven West Media chief James Warburton announced the decision in an email to staff on Monday morning, stating Mr Roberts-Smith would be focused on his “upcoming legal matters”. “Ben’s leave will start today. Ben and I believe this mutual decision is best for both him and our company,” Mr Warburton said. “We expect Ben to return to his role upon the completion of his defamation proceedings.”Mr Warburton said Mr Roberts-Smith would be unlikely to return to work before August, as the trial is expected to run for eight weeks.
Seven West Media is majority owned by Seven Group Holdings, which is controlled by media mogul Kerry Stokes’ private investment vehicle. Mr Stokes is the chairman of Seven and his son, Ryan Stokes, sits on the board as a director.
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