Which element must be included in a defence statement?

• A. Denied allegations and reasons
• B. The claimant's witness list
• C. A request for costs
• D. A new claim

Answer: (A)

In a defence statement, you must set out your position on each point raised in the claim by admitting, denying, or not admitting the allegations, and, where you deny, you must give your reasons. This makes clear what you accept and what you dispute, and it explains the facts and reasoning the defendant relies on to support their stance. Providing reasons for denial helps the court understand the basis of the dispute and the issues that will need to be decided at trial. It also ensures that the defence is specific and responsive to every paragraph of the claimant’s claim, rather than leaving points unexplained.

The other items aren’t required as part of the defence itself. The claimant’s witness list is part of the evidential process and is not a mandatory element of the defence statement. A request for costs is handled separately, typically later in the proceedings or at the end, not inside the defence. And a new claim would be a separate action, not something to be included within a defence.