YZ v Amazon (No 2)

The matter involved the plaintiff, YZ, suing Amazon for damages resulting from alleged breach of contract. YZ, a self-represented litigant, filed a statement of claim that was subsequently struck out as it contained embarrassing information. YZ failed to serve an amended pleading within the time allowed by the court. The court was required to determine whether the proceedings should be struck out for want of due despatch.

The court found that the plaintiff, despite being self-represented, was still required to comply with the court's procedural rules. The plaintiff's failure to serve an amended pleading within the time allowed was a clear breach of the court's orders. The court considered the circumstances of the case, including the plaintiff's conduct and the impact on the efficient administration of justice. The court ultimately concluded that the proceedings should be struck out due to the plaintiff's failure to comply with the court's directions.

The court's reasoning was grounded in the need to ensure the efficient and effective administration of justice. The court found that the plaintiff's conduct had caused significant delays and had the potential to further disrupt the proceedings. The court emphasised the importance of litigants, whether self-represented or not, adhering to procedural rules and court orders. In light of the plaintiff's failure to serve an amended pleading within the time allowed, the court found that the proceedings should be struck out for want of due despatch.

The court ordered that the proceedings be struck out and that no costs be awarded. The court noted that the plaintiff had the right to appeal the decision, but that the appeal would not stay the operation of the order. The court also noted that the plaintiff could file a new proceeding if they wished to pursue their claims, provided that they complied with the court's procedural rules and directions.