(1)  This rule applies to a defence of absolute privilege –

(a) under section 27 of the Defamation Act 2005 ; and

(b) at common law.

(2)  A defence to which this rule applies is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the matter complained of was published under absolute privilege.

(3)  Without limiting rule 263C , the particulars required by rule 263A(1) for a defence to which this rule applies must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the imputation or matter complained of was published under absolute privilege.