Not sure but think "backed by law" there refers not to an existing law, but to proposed new legislation they want to bring in - to enforce the watchdog's powers.

 

If any proposed legislation is found to contravene existing statute or rights [ eg European Law, Human Rights etc ]  it could be challenged and struck down.

 

 

 

am sure I heard they don't have to sign up to the charter  if they don't want to. . so any law made to back the charter up is irrelevant to those who don't sign up to it...  so it was a complete waste of time really  

Indeed, good point  

The most important point is that laws are already in place and the press have ridden straight through them. The authorities only seem to prosecute after a lot of arm twisting.

They make me sick.